In the midst of stress, worry, fear, and uncertainty, how can we obtain the abundant joy that God promises throughout the Bible to those who love Him?

Having joy and peace seems almost impossible in these tumultuous times, doesn’t it? But let me tell you from very personal experience, you can.

This year has been difficult, on so many fronts, and yet this past weekend was full of incredible joy as we celebrated the wedding of my daughter, Emily, and the love of her life, Matthew. Everything about it seemed magical: the venue, the flowers, the candle lit aisle, her outfit, even the mist in the air as we were having photos taken outside. In the middle of a global pandemic and all the stresses and complications — there was joy!

God does that. God continually provides for each of us reminders that we can find joy even in the midst trials and difficulties.

It's true that some trials are big, and some are small. Trials come in all different shapes and sizes.

So what is the secret to joy in trials? What’s the secret for a Christian to have joy while suffering through financial hardship, cancer, the loss of a loved one? Is it realistic that both joy and grief can exist together?

We can see this throughout scripture. Peter writes about it and Paul lived it. Look at what the Apostle Paul said about his trials in 2 Corinthians 6:10: “Sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything”.

Paul said he was at the same time “sorrowful” and still “rejoicing.”

To have joy in trials is not to deny pain. It’s to recognize the fact that they can exist together. They can co-exist in the same way two people can exchange vows and promises of a joyful future in the midst of a global pandemic, or as an expectant mother can go through the pain of childbirth and still have joy in thinking about what is to come. Both have joy because they have the “right focus” as they consider their promising lives together. In the same way, we must have the right focus in order to have joy in the midst of trials.

What is the “right focus” to obtain joy in the midst of our trials?

Focus on God’s love, sovereignty and purpose in trials. The trial may be necessary for our growth and maturity in Christ. (1 Peter 1:6)
Focus on our faith, trials prove the genuineness of our faith (1 Peter 1:7)
Focus on our relationship with God, trials can bring deep intimacy with God. (1 Peter 1:8-9)
Focus on the eternal glory; faithfulness in trials will be rewarded. (1 Peter 1:6-7)

May you persevere by staying focused on the prize and know that God is preparing you, maturing you, and blessing you beyond what you could ever hope or imagine!

May you find JOY!