I get so frustrated when I lose my keys, cell phone, or that important receipt. It’s discouraging.

If it’s something important, I put everything on hold until the lost item is found. And 100% of the time, I find it in the last place I look. (I’ve yet to find something and keep looking for it!)

When searching for something there are thousands of places where the item isn’t, but only one place the item is.

The same is true if you’re looking for JOY. There are a countless number of places you won’t find joy, and only one place you will.

You won’t find joy in…

1. Success.

You won’t find joy in a new job promotion.  More money, a fancy title, or a corner office give the allure of joy, but behind the facade it’s an empty trap. There will also be another step to climb or more money to make. Worldly success is a moving target. Once you think you’re there, you realize you’re not.

2. Stuff. 

If you think that new car will bring you joy, think again. The problem with new gadgets and new toys is that very soon they aren’t new anymore. Within weeks or months there is a “newer” version, and you’re becomes outdated and old.

3. Hobbies.

Hobbies are key to a healthy life. Whether you golf, knit, work with wood, or dabble in underwater basket-weaning, hobbies are a great way to stay active and build relationships. BUT hobbies won’t bring you true joy. They are enjoyable, but they fail to be a consistent source of joy in our lives.  If you don’t believe me, just ask 5-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady. He’ll tell you there’s something more to life.

4. People

This one is a little tougher to explain because relationships bring us so much joy. We were made for relationships. Your spouse, your kids, and your friends all have a unique way of bringing joy to your life, but they are not the source of joy. What happens if you lose a loved one? Do you lose your joy?

There has to be another place to find true joy!  There is.

You ONLY place you’ll find joy…

A Growing Relationship with Jesus Christ. 

Listen to what Jesus says to us, “These things I have spoken to you so that My Joy may be in you and that your joy may be made full.” John 15:11

Jesus gives us HIS JOY so that OUR JOY may be full. What an incredible thought!

If you are looking for joy in all the wrong places, stop and look to Jesus. He is the one and only source of true, lasting joy. He fills you and sustains you. He redeems you and restores you.

Don’t let things like legalism, criticism, and egotism steal your joy today. Find your joy in Him, and watch your joy be made full.