Do you ever feel like happiness and joy is out of reach? Maybe you’ve been through some tough circumstances, and while you know you should have joy in the Lord, it feels more like a distant hope than a present reality. You’re not alone. I’ve walked through seasons of discouragement, but I’ve also learned some practical, biblical steps that have helped me experience the joy that God promises. God offers us His joy—abundant and accessible right now.
I’m passionate about helping women like you break free from difficult emotions, and have joy in the abundant life God has for you. Let me share five practical, biblical tips to help you be more happy in your daily life.
1. Practice Being Thankful
When we take the time to notice and thank God for His blessings—both big and small—it changes our perspective. Each day, write down 5–10 things you’re thankful for. Take note of the little things: a hot cup of coffee in the morning, a hug from your child, the beauty of the sunrise, laughing with a friend, or even the fact that you have running water. Every good gift comes from God!
Years ago, my family faced a difficult move across the country. It was a season of loss and uncertainty. But during that time, I began journaling my gratitude after reading One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp. This practice opened my eyes to the countless blessings around me, and I felt happier.
The Bible reminds us, “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Gratitude changes our focus from what’s going wrong to what God is doing right.
2. Stop Complaining
Let’s be honest—complaining comes naturally to most of us. But here’s the problem: it drains your joy. Complaining focuses on what’s wrong, but gratitude focuses on God’s goodness.
When you feel tempted to complain, pause and choose to be thankful instead. For example, instead of grumbling about a long line, thank God for the chance to slow down and pray. Instead of complaining about the rain, thank Him for watering the earth. He knows what you need!
Philippians 2:14-15 says, “Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God.”
This simple shift can reframe your entire outlook.
3. Avoid the Comparison Trap
Comparison is one of the greatest thieves of joy. Social media makes it easy to compare our lives to others, but it often leaves us feeling inadequate or envious. Proverbs 14:30 warns, “A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.”
If scrolling through Instagram or Facebook leaves you feeling discontent, take a break! Use that time to read God’s Word instead. You’ll feel much more peaceful!
4. Spend Time with God
The source of true happiness isn’t our circumstances; it’s God Himself. Psalm 16:11 tells us, “In Your presence is fullness of joy.” Spending time with the Lord in prayer, worship, and His Word renews our hearts and fills us with His joy.
One of my favorite ways to experience joy is through worship. Singing or playing worship music while you go about your day can lift your spirits and remind you of God’s goodness and power.
5. Declare Joy Over Your Life
Joy isn’t just a feeling; it’s a choice. The Bible commands us to rejoice always (1 Thessalonians 5:16). Start your day by declaring, “I am so full of joy in the Lord!” Let this truth guide your thoughts and actions.
When we remember the blessings we have in Christ—forgiveness, peace with God, the Holy Spirit, the hope of eternal life—it’s impossible not to feel joy. Philippians 4:4 says, “Rejoice in the Lord always; I will say it again, rejoice!”
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Joy is possible—even in the hardest seasons. But sometimes, we need support to get there. If you’re feeling unhappy or discouraged, and you want to have more joy, I’d love to help. As a Christian life coach, I specialize in helping women break free from negative emotions and embrace the abundant life God has for you.