As you read my posts I hope you’re learning that joy isn’t something that you can produce yourself. You can’t talk yourself into being joyful. That lasts about a day.

Joy is something that God forms inside you through his Holy Spirit. We can know it, but experiencing it is another thing.

Today, let’s consider how praise is connected to our joy.

In fact, praise leads to joy and joy leads to praise.

They are siblings. Like two brothers who play well together for hours.

When I say praise, I’m referring to praising God for who He is. When you think through the character of God, and praise him for his character traits, your spirit will be lifted. Joy will emerge. Joy centered on the Father, Jesus and the Holy Spirit.

When you give God praise for who He is, there’s no room for anything but Him.

God’s faithfulness chases away doubt.

The Lord’s power overcomes fear.

His Spirit’s holiness pushes out sin.

Christ’s love melts indifference.

The Father’s goodness destroys our evil thoughts.

Here’s an example of how your prayers centering on one attribute of God, his faithfulness, can completely transform your thoughts, spirit, emotions and soul:

Lord God, I praise you for your faithfulness. I can always count on you. You never leave me or forsake me. In my hardest times, you are there. In my happiest times, you laugh with me. When I sin and let you down, you stay with me. No matter what, you are faithful. I lift up my heart to you and honor you for your faithfulness. When people disappoint me, you don’t. 

Father, I look around me and see a world that seems out of control. But you are a faithful God who is ever-present and in control. You are true to your Word. Praise you for your faithfulness. I will never doubt you. Oh Lord, may I keep my eyes on you, the faithful Father that I know. What a blessing to know that I am a child of the faithful God. Amen and amen!

As you praise God for trait after trait, your heart will be filled with joy. Take your time and let the reality of each character quality sink in. Enjoy your time of praise, whether it be silent or aloud. God’s Holy Spirit will give you a heart of joy.

That joy will lead to more praise. It’s a wonderful cycle.

Set your alarm to pause at times during the day. Choose one attribute of God and get lost in praise.

(Experience more joy when you read my devotional Your Life With God: 30 Days of Joy).