Biblical Answer

Joy is not the opposite of depression, but rather a deeper and more profound experience that can coexist with depression. When we're feeling stuck and hopeless, we can still pursue joy by focusing on the things that bring us peace and happiness. According to the text, joy is a "no-risk proposition" that can be pursued without fear of making things worse.

In order to find joy in the simple things in life, we need to be willing to look for it and welcome it into our lives. This requires a willingness to let go of our attachment to pleasure and instead focus on the things that bring us joy. As the text states, "True happiness comes from joy, not from pleasure." By letting go of our attachment to pleasure, we can experience a deeper and more profound sense of joy that is not dependent on external circumstances.

The text also reminds us that joy is always possible, even in the midst of suffering. When we're feeling hopeless, we can return to the cross and appreciate the beauty of what Jesus did, which can bring us joy and peace. By focusing on the things that bring us joy and peace, we can find happiness even in the midst of difficult circumstances. As the text states, "We make our own purpose. We make our own joy." By choosing to focus on the things that bring us joy, we can create our own happiness and find joy in the simple things in life.