Joy is more than happiness.  It is not based on financial success, good health, or popularity.  By believing in God, obeying his will, receiving his forgiveness, participating in fellowship with other believers, ministering to others, and sharing the Gospel, believers will experience joy.

 

"At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, "I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.  Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure." Luke 10:21

 

Jesus said,"I am coming to you now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them." John 17:13

 

Jesus said, "Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.  In that day you will no longer ask me anything.  I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.  Until now you have not asked for anything in my name.  Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete." John 16:22-24