What is the difference between joy and happiness? This is the discussion I had with my family this week during a morning prayer time. "They're the same thing." one of my sons piped up. But are they really? Why is then that the Bible says we can have joy during sufferings. I don't know about you but I'm not happy when things around me aren't going well and life is topsy turvy.
Here is what DL Moody has to say on the topic.
I think there is a difference between happiness and joy. Happiness is caused by things that happen around me and circumstances will mar it but joy flows right on through trouble. Joy flows on through the dark. Joy flows in the night and the day. Joy flows through persecution and opposition. It is an unceasing fountain bubbling in the heart. A secret spring that the world can't see and don't know anything about. The Lord gives His people perpetual joy when they walk in obedience to Him. (From Day to Day with DL Moody, Ambassador Publications)
Happiness is circumstantial but real joy comes from Jesus.
Have a lovely week and God bless
Michelle