Statistics show that December is the most stressful and depressing time of the year, with pressures from work, missing loved ones, demands we feel like we have to meet and the overwhelming need to spend money we might not have.

So let’s talk about the antidote to all of this, that antidote is Joy.

So what is Joy?

Joy is not a byproduct of a 6 figure income, nor of living in upscale neighborhood, have fame, economic status. Joy is more than happiness, because happiness speaks to circumstances like a new house, a new car, a new job. Joy is

deeper; it speaks of something beyond our present circumstances and independent of circumstances.

Joy is the settled assurance that God is in control of all the details of my life, the quiet confidence that ultimately everything is going to be alright and because of that, people with Joy are determined to thank God in every situation.

So Joy is more than a feeling but a choice.

2 Cor 6:10 sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything.

In other words, I am in sorrowful circumstances but I choose to rejoice.

2 Cor 7:4, Great is my confidence in you; great is my pride in you; I am filled with encouragement; in all our troubles my joy overflows.

 So joy is a choice and is independent of the circumstances in life if we choose to.

 Phil 4 Vs 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (NIV)

Vs 6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. (NLT)

We have to pray first, not later, not after but pray first. We shouldn’t treat prayer like a 911 call.