Many people—you may be one of them—incorrectly believe that the act of rejoicing (defined as a verb, to show great joy) is born from a person’s inner joy: they rejoice because they have joy. In fact, just the opposite is true.

Rejoicing isn’t a by-product of joy. Joy is a by-product of rejoicing. The act of rejoicing produces joy (defined as a feeling of great pleasure and happiness).

Psalm 118:24 says “This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Notice that the choice to rejoice (and it is a choice) wasn’t qualified by a any feelings. It was simple a decision to demonstrate joy. Also notice that the gladness comes after the rejoicing. Often the passage is quoted “…I will rejoice and be glad in it.” That’s a misquote, it’s “let us” not “I will” but the misquote serves to make a point that rejoicing is a volitional act of your will. It’s a decision to act in a manner that demonstrates joy without regard to the presence or absence of the feeling of joy.

Philippians 4:4 says “Rejoice in the Lord always, again I will say it, rejoice!” There is no qualifier on when or why or if we should rejoice, only the imperative to  do it. Rejoice! We don’t rejoice based on feelings. We simply choose to act in a rejoicing manner.

The behavior of rejoicing begins to develop a spirit of joy within us. If you want to increase in joy, begin rejoicing.

Get happy!

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Next up: The Behavior of Rejoicing. How do I do it?