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.

There is so much to be thankful for. Here are just three things:

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, the flesh, and the devil on the cross, so can we. His Spirit in us empowers us to victory over our selfishness and every demonic attack. We are more than conquerers! Thank God!

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

The kingdoms of this world are shaking and crumbling around us. The result is 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 unshakeable Kingdom of God—for we ARE the Kingdom—the place where His glory dwells. Thank You Lord!

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

Imagine if God was evil and not good. How horrible would life be for everyone! But HE IS GOOD and everything He does is good. Plus He works all things together for OUR good. Also, His goodness follows us all the days of our lives! Thank You God for Your goodness!

So what is the key to joy? Thankfulness. 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 present.

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