We are living in a world full of joy killers, even at Christmas. The enemy’s agenda has always been the same: to steal, kill, and destroy. Yet, I love encountering people who are infectious with joy, a joy that flows from the true source of all joy, despite the circumstances they may face.

The apostle Paul understood this well. Writing from challenging circumstances, he repeatedly encouraged believers to “rejoice in the Lord always” (Philippians 4:4). Joy, then, is not dependent on stability, comfort, or ease; it is a choice rooted in faith and sustained by relationship with God.

In a volatile and uncertain world, it is easy for joy to fade. When life feels unpredictable and the future unclear, holding onto joy can seem difficult. Yet the Christmas message reminds us that joy is not anchored in what surrounds us, but in who Christ is. “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son…” Christmas declares that we were never meant to simply survive life, but to live in the fullness God intended and to experience true and lasting joy.

Joy must be rooted in personal faith. When we believe and embrace the Christmas story in its fullness, joy becomes more than a feeling, it becomes a way of living. God also calls us to be carriers of His joy. Scripture reminds us that we are helpers of joy (2 Corinthians 1:24). Every time we point someone to Christ, we partner with God in restoring joy in their lives. What a calling, especially at Christmas.

I’ve spoken with many people whose joy has been buried under pressure, disappointment, or weariness. The enemy works tirelessly even to discourage God’s people, particularly during a season meant for celebration. The Lord has reminded me that if we are to help others experience joy, we must choose to live it ourselves. This happens as we immerse our hearts in God’s Word and are continually reminded of the Gospel, that Christ’s desire is for our joy to be full (John 15:11).

So how do we guard our joy?

• Don’t lose your smile. “A joyful heart makes a cheerful face” (Proverbs 15:13).
• Don’t lose your laughter. “A merry heart does good like medicine” (Proverbs 17:22).
• Don’t lose your song. “Sing for joy to God our strength” (Psalm 81:1).

Joy flows from the heart. It isn’t forced; it is cultivated. George Müller once said that the first thing he intentionally did each morning was to get his heart happy in the Lord, and from that joy came strength for everything God had called him to do.

Christianity is not a religion it is a relationship marked by joy through our union with Christ. Christmas truly is good news of great joy. In a world that often feels unstable, don’t allow the enemy to steal what God has given.

May your Christmas be filled with joy, deep, resilient, and overflowing.

Have a wonderful Christmas full of joy!