When I was dealing with a pretty big emotional trial, the local missionaries stopped by our home.
One of the sisters asked me, “What really brings you joy?”
It took me off-guard more than I expected.
I couldn’t quite narrow it down to just one answer.
Plus, I wasn’t feeling much joy at the moment.
Paul taught:
“Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.” (2 Corinthians 7:4)
But I wasn’t finding a lot of joy in my tribulation.
I stumbled out an answer to our missionaries and then one of them shared something that totally changed my perspective.
She basically said:
“I find joy in being creative!
“Yes, I love to paint and draw.
“But I also love creating happiness!
“God is so creative, and I find joy when I create with Him!”
We ended up having a beautiful conversation about the connection between joy and creation.
Something totally clicked in my mind.
I have joy when I create a life for myself where I can feel the Spirit and become more Christlike.
I have joy in my life when I create a marriage and home where we keep the commandments, show love, and have fun!
I have joy when I create breathtaking music that transcends any emotions words can capture.
I have joy when I create beautiful, strong friendships.
And ultimately, I have joy when I am going through difficult trials, and yet I still create moments of happiness and peace with my Savior.
“We can feel joy regardless of what is happening- or not happening- in our lives. Joy comes from and because of Him.” -Russell M. Nelson
When we create, I believe we find joy because we partner with Heavenly Father to bring goodness into existence.
So, what brings you joy?
What are you able to create?
Happy Studying!
-Cali Black
4 Responses
I love the feeling of joy. I find it when I see my children happy. When they contribute to the Kingdom of God. When a friend tells me something they are doing to help another. Joy is in Every Good Thing.
I love this!! <3
Thank you for this. I’ve been recently studying the difference between joy and happiness. I’m learning that while happiness is fleeting, joy remains constant and can actually grow through troubles!
I love that- joy is constant <3 Thanks for sharing!