Reasons for Joy!
Joy, in its outward expression, may range from calm delight to an overflowing holy exuberance, but it is rooted in spiritual perceptions, rather than being a superficial reaction to circumstances. It may, in fact, run counter to the latter, especially in the believer’s response to trials (cf. Jas. 1:2). Here is a sampling of the things that bring joy to the heart of the child of God.
1) Joy in salvation (Isa. 12:3; cf. Lk. 10:20; 15:10)
2) Joy in worship and praise (I Chron. 15:25; II Chron. 23:18; Ezra 6:16)
3) Joy in Christian fellowship (Phil. 1:4-5; II Tim. 1:4)
4) Joy in persecution (Acts 5:41; 13:50-52; Col. 1:11)
5) Joy in victory and deliverance (II Chron. 20:27; Ps. 105:42-43)
6) Joy in studying the Scriptures (I Thess. 1:6; cf. Ps. 1:2; 119:24, 77)
7) Joy in service for the Lord (Ps. 40:8; Acts 20:24; Phil. 1:18; cf. Lk. 10:17)
8) Joy in the spiritual progress of others (Phil. 2:2; I Thess. 2:19; Heb. 13:17; III Jn. 3)