Feast on Joy

Every day is hard for those who suffer...but a happy heart is like a continual feast. Proverbs 15:15 (EXB)

Building your life on a foundation of joy comes down to the state of your heart and the set of beliefs you hold. Today’s verse gives us a stark contrast between two kinds of hearts: a broken heart and a happy heart.

Over my years of pastoring, I’ve met many people whose hearts have been broken. Something devastating has happened in their lives, and they’ve lost hope. As time goes on, they begin to expect the negative everywhere they go, so that’s what they continue to experience day after day. As it says in Proverbs 15:15, “Every day is hard for those who suffer.”

But I’ve also met people who refuse to give in to despair, even in the midst of loss or disappointment. They may be grieving, but they don’t allow themselves to become cynical. They refuse to give up or cast away their confidence in Christ. As a result, they experience what Proverbs calls “a continual feast.” When you talk to these people, you sense an unshakable strength and peace that defies their circumstances.

Now, I’m not downplaying anyone’s situation. But notice today’s verse doesn’t say, “Once the suffering is over, you’ll experience a feast.” No, it’s saying that the condition of your heart can allow you to feast on God’s supernatural peace, strength and joy—even when your world is shaken.

As a believer, abundant joy is yours for the taking. Choose to focus on God’s Word and let it renew the deepest beliefs of your heart. As you do, it will bring joy and stability to your mind, emotions, relationships and every area of your life.

How can you practice joy today?