What is the Key to Joy?

There is a storehouse of joy awaiting us, but the door is locked. You need a key to get in.

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” Psalm 100:4

Thanks and praise. Thanks and praise. They seem to appear everywhere in God’s word.

“Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

You have as much joy as you have thankfulness. The two are connected.

Here are three things I’m thankful for:

1. “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15:57

Because Christ overcame the world on the cross, so can we. His Spirit in us empowers us to victory over selfishness as we surrender to His will. Thank God!

2. “Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken” Hebrews 12:28

Society is shaking and crumbling around us. People are more depressed and fearful than ever. We can escape the madness and enter a place of peace and joy. Every time we join with other believers we experience the Kingdom of God—for we ARE the Kingdom—the place where His glory dwells.

3. “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His steadfast love endures forever!” Psalm 107:1

When I stop and think of how good God is and how deeply He loves me, His joy fills my heart. This love He has for me will never end. He loves me so much He wants to spend eternity with me! Thank You Jesus!

If you want more joy, be more thankful, for thankfulness unlocks the gates of heaven. From there we enter God’s courts with praise—and in His courts we will find Him—and in His presence is fullness of joy!

“I will proclaim Your greatness, my God and King; I will thank You for ever and ever. Every day I will thank You; I will praise You for ever and ever.” Psalms 145:1-2