Biblical Answer

The Elusive Nature of Joy

Joy is often elusive, especially when we're feeling stuck and hopeless. The passage suggests that joy is not the opposite of depression, but rather it's deeper than depression. It's the rock that stands firm, even in the midst of relentless rain. This means that joy is not something we can simply turn on or off; it's a choice we must make, even when we don't feel like it. As the passage says, "You must be willing to welcome joy rather than feel like you are betraying your depression by looking for it."

Finding Joy in the Simple Things

So, how do we find joy in the midst of suffering? The passage suggests that we look for joy in the simple things. When we focus on the blessings God has given us, we can find joy in eating, drinking, working, and other everyday activities. This is because joy comes from God, and when we recognize that everything good comes from Him, we are freed to take joy in His blessings. This means that we don't have to wait for some future moment of happiness to experience joy; we can find it in the present moment, in the midst of our everyday lives.

A No-Risk Proposition

The passage also suggests that pursuing joy is a no-risk proposition. The worst that can happen is that we will honor God, and even that is not a bad thing. In fact, it's a promise that God will give us great joy in the midst of our struggles. This means that we have nothing to lose and everything to gain by pursuing joy. So, let's not be discouraged if joy seems elusive at first. Let's be willing to look for it, to welcome it, and to find it in the simple things. As the passage says, "Every depressed person should set out to be an expert in joy." It's a choice we can make, and it's a choice that can bring us great joy and happiness in the midst of our struggles.