Living a Joy-Filled Life When Life Is Hard

“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” — Nehemiah 8:10 (NIV)

Let’s be real—Joy doesn’t always come easy. Especially when life is heavy. Bills pile up. People let you down. The unexpected hits, and suddenly, joy feels like a distant memory instead of a present reality.

But here’s the beautiful truth:

Joy is not based on what’s happening around you. It’s rooted in Who lives within you.

God’s joy is not a fleeting feeling. It’s a soul strength that holds you together when everything else feels like it’s falling apart.

What It Means to Choose Joy in Hard Seasons

Joy isn’t ignoring your pain.

It’s choosing to look for God in the middle of it.

Joy doesn’t mean you don’t cry.

It means you still trust—even with tears in your eyes.

Read & Journal:

• “Consider it pure joy… whenever you face trials of many kinds…” — James 1:2 (NIV)

• “Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy.” — Psalm 126:5 (NIV)

• “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy.” — Psalm 16:11 (ESV)

You don’t have to fake it.

You just have to anchor yourself in the One who is unshakable.

That’s where lasting joy is found.

🔄 Rhythm Shifts: How to Cultivate Joy When Life Is Hard

Here are three simple ways to make space for joy—especially when you’re in a hard season:

1. Look for God in the Little Things

“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” — Psalm 118:24 (NIV)

Start a “Joy List.” Each day, write down at least one moment of goodness—a smile, a verse, a cup of tea, a quiet morning. Small moments of gratitude make space for big joy.

2. Speak Joy Over Your Circumstances

“The tongue has the power of life and death…” — Proverbs 18:21 (NIV)

Even if you don’t feel joyful, declare it.

Say aloud:

“I choose joy today.”

“I have strength through Christ.”

“Joy is rising in me.”

Let your words lead your emotions.

3. Lean into God’s Presence, Not Just His Promises

“In your presence there is fullness of joy…” — Psalm 16:11 (ESV)

Spend time just being with God—no agenda, no request list. Let His nearness quiet your anxiety. Joy is found in presence, not performance.

Dear God, you see the hard places I’m walking through, and yet you still invite me into joy.

Help me to lean into your presence, not my problems. Teach me to trust that joy is available even here. Renew my strength. Lift my head. Let my heart remember that you are good—even when life is hard. In Jesus' name, AMEN.

Joy isn’t fake. It’s faith.

It’s the decision to say,

“This hurts, but I’m still holding on to hope.”

You are allowed to feel the weight of what you’re carrying and still reach for joy.

Don’t wait for things to get easier to walk in it.

Joy is for today.

Say this out loud:

“Even here, I choose joy.” 💛

Let’s go live, love, and lead well—together. 🥳💛

Now, pause... What is God saying to you? Grab your Live Love Lead Journal to write down what He speaks to you and track your spiritual growth. You can get your copy by CLICKING HERE.

As you are on your faith journey, I would love to connect more. If you want to further connect or if you’re looking for more inspiration and practical tips on living a Christ-centered life with purpose, head over to the Live Love Lead Community for regular updates and encouragement. Let’s journey together in faith and resilience.

I love you with the love of Christ! ~ April Nicole Scipio 💛