Prayer and Joy

Last week we looked at the relationship between peace and prayer. Today we look at the relationship between joy and prayer. 

God Says

You haven’t done this before. Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy. –John 16:33

Something to Think About 

Would you describe your life as full of joy? Is there quite a bit of joy? Is there some joy? Or is it pretty much absent of joy? 

Now think of your prayer life. Is joy something you are praying for? God’s promise is that when we ask, using the name of Jesus, we will receive abundant joy. 

Individual or Family Activity 

Think or talk about joy that exists in your life. Is it something you only experience when you are happy? Or do you experience joy during life’s trials and tribulations? Make a commitment to praying for joy and begin praying for joy today. 

Individual or Family Prayer 

Dear God - 

Fill me with joy. 

When my life seems boring—fill me with joy. 

When my life is full of fear—fill me with joy. 

When I am sad—fill me with joy. 

When I am overwhelmed—fill me with joy. 

May my joy not depend on others, but on You. 

May my joy not depend on me, but on You. 

May I be as faithful in asking as You are in giving. 

May I accept and share Your gift of joy. 

Fill me with joy. 

Amen.