Life can bring so much joy, yet sometimes, it can bring sadness and disappointment. In those particular seasons, we can be reminded and encouraged by Scripture that our joy stems from the unwavering love and presence of God. Joy does not only come from our circumstances. 

Whether you’re in a season of joy or sadness, let these verses encourage you to rejoice and find strength in the joy of the Lord.

Nehemiah 8:10 (NIV)

“Nehemiah said, ‘Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.’”  

Psalm 118:24 (NLT)

“This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.” 

James 1:17 (NLT)

“Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.” 

Habakkuk 3:17-18 (ESV)

“Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fail and the fields yield no food, the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation.” 

Romans 12:12 (NLT)

“Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.” 

Psalm 30:5b (NLT)

“Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.” 

Philippians 4:4 (NLT)

“Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice!” 

Zephaniah 3:17 (ESV)

“The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.” 

1 Peter 1:6-7 (NLT)

“So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world.” 

How to Find & Prioritize Joy in Your Life