Joy, as a fruit of God's spirit, holds a significant place, listed second only to love, which God declares as the greatest virtue. This godly joy, derived from the Greek word meaning cheerfulness and calm delight, is not akin to giddiness or mirth, but rather a profound state untouched by earthly humor or fleeting amusement. It is a quality inseparable from godly love, impossible without it, and shares the same root as grace. This joy springs from a life lived generously, with kindness and goodness, even amidst persecution. Every book in the New Testament reflects the capacity to rejoice, even in the worst of circumstances, embodying a state of being sorrowful yet always rejoicing. Unlike earthly sources, this joy arises from a divine connection, offering a sense of well-being that transcends temporal struggles.

True, lasting joy is not rooted in material accumulation or extraordinary physical accomplishments, but in the hope of salvation and the wonderful promises God has set before us. Only by seeing beyond ourselves and our cares can we possess godly joy, a gladness of heart that is a fruit of the Spirit. Carnal joy, in contrast, is temporary, based in self-centeredness, and God instructs His people not to rejoice like the world, for sorrow in humility is better than joy in pride. Gladness and joy, however, are blessings from God, grounded upon Him and derived from Him, characterizing the lives of Christians as a quality, not merely an emotion. Angels express joy when events in God's plan unfold, and both God and angels are thrilled when a sinner repents of worldly ways, as prayer for forgiveness brings joyous repentance and restoration of righteousness. God grants joy to His faithful, strengthening them through their relationship with Him as a reward for repentance, humility, trust, and faithfulness, and He makes His people joyful. Godly unity produces joy by overcoming the sorrow of self-seeking and fulfilling the true love of outgoing concern for others, especially when God's people share common beliefs and desires, working toward a common goal. Ministers, in particular, find joy in seeing progress as they labor to lead others to repentance and direct them toward the Kingdom of God. Joy can also be experienced through persevering in trials, as suffering for Christ's sake brings rejoicing, and through the Holy Spirit, God gives the gift of joy as part of spiritual completion. The Kingdom of God itself is characterized by joy in the Holy Spirit, producing eternal spiritual fruit, unlike the sorrow and sighing of the world caused by sin. The prospect of salvation and eternal life is a source of joyous hope, and there will be everlasting joy when God's Kingdom is established on earth. This joy and gladness is not only a deep inward feeling but is also expressed in visible celebration when God's people gather together, as we are encouraged to rejoice in the Lord always.