How to Find Your Inner Joy (That’s Already There)

I recently wrote an article about finding your joy. I mentioned the key to doing so is to look inside of you because that’s where your joy always is. You seek joy there instead of looking for it on the outside in circumstances, people, or activities. I recently heard a message about this that provides a different take on this, and felt the need to share.

Many people are aware that the best place to find joy is within themselves. They know true joy is there, yet they still struggle to experience it. I live in Buffalo NY. Winter here is very difficult. Besides the large amounts of snow we receive, it is very often cloudy and dark. We regularly go days, and sometimes even weeks, without seeing the sun. Does that mean the sun is not there? Does it completely disappear? We know that it does not. The sun is always there. We just don’t see it because it is blocked by the constant interference of clouds and precipitation. When this interference disappears, the beauty of the sun is visible again, we feel its warmth, and we experience its benefits.

This is also true of the unlimited joy we all have. It is always there, all within us. So why do we not experience this joy often enough? It’s because of all the interference we allow that clouds the light of God in us. What is that interference? It’s the constant chatter in our minds, and the negative thoughts and feelings we allow to get in the way that are blocking the light of God’s love. As a result, we don’t experience it, and our lives become dark and depressing, just like the Buffalo winter.

Once again I remind you that the joy you wish to experience is not something you have to go searching for. You already have it and will always carry it right there with you. Here is the key… don’t focus on going out and finding joy. Instead, figure out what is interfering with the joy you already have. Simply clear the clouds of negativity and let them dissipate.

You don’t have to be controlled by your thoughts. Instead, you control them. Any thought that you don’t want, you simply command that it leaves your mind. It’s your choice to keep or dismiss any thoughts. I believe this is what the Bible means when it says to take each thought captive. Focus instead on what you want, and what is good, noble, and praiseworthy.

I realize this is often easier said than done. I’ve been aware of this information for a long time, yet I still fall into this trap more times than I care to admit. I allow the negative thoughts to interfere and block the light far more than the Buffalo clouds. I recommend that if you find this difficult, then ask God for help. He always comes through. There have been times where the winter darkness has been so depressing here, that I’ve asked God to have the sun shine for once. It often happens. He also answers quickly when I ask to see more of His light as well. I believe He will do the same for you. Ask Him to remove the negative clouds from your mind, and I know He will come through and help. Then His love, light, and joy come through, and instead of darkness, you can experience heaven on earth. Enjoy the blessings 🙂