Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy (Luke 2:10). 

These were the words that the shepherds heard one night while they were watching over their flocks. This good news of great joy was not just for them, but for you and me. The good news was that on that day, our Savior was born. 

The shepherds hurried off to Bethlehem to see for themselves what they had just heard about from the Lord. When they got to Bethlehem, they found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. They found that what the Lord had said to them was true. God became flesh and would grow up to be a man who lived and walked among the people of that day. That baby which the shepherds saw that night in the manger is the object of all our joy. 

Your heart can be filled with great joy today as you in faith contemplate what God has done, who God is, and what God will do in the future. 

Joy can only be found in God. Joy is a divine spark that entered your life at the cross, when you acknowledged your need for Christ and cried out for forgiveness. Joy will continue to be your constant companion as you are obedient to God. 

Joy is not a cheerful disposition, happiness, or a positive mental outlook on life. Joy is rooted in the heart and soul of those who are God’s children. 

The direst of circumstances or the worst kind of events can’t extinguish or dampen your joy. Look beyond your circumstances and confidently wait in hope and love for Christ. 

Don’t let Satan steal your joy! You forfeit your joy when you pursue selfish desires, choose to think about all the things that you don’t have, or are envious of others. Sinful pleasures, evil passions, and selfish cravings destroy joy. The opinions of other people will never flood your soul with joy. 

When you let your curiosity or pride try to undertake the fruitless task of trying to understand the mysterious ways of the all-wise, all-knowing God, you are allowing Satan to rob you of your joy. Instead, with simple, childlike faith, trust our sovereign God, and joy will pour into your heart. 

With your eyes fixed on Jesus, you can face long work days, stressful jobs, and office politics with joy. With joy you can go about your work in peace. 

Although you may struggle with insecurities, depression, anxiety, a need for approval, or a drive for significance, you can rejoice today because you are God’s child. God is your glory and strength! You will be overjoyed when God’s glory is revealed. 

Give thanks today with joy because the Lord your God is with you and takes great delight in you!