Come Holy Spirit Series: Week 3 Part B Fruit of the Spirit: Joy

 Come Holy Spirit Series.

Come Holy Spirit

Week 3: The Fruit of the Spirit is Joy

“The fruit of the Spirit is… joy…” — Galatians 5:22

 

Introduction: Joy Beyond Circumstance

When we think of joy, we often think of happiness, laughter, or cheerful moments. But the joy the Holy Spirit brings is much deeper—a steady, spiritual gladness rooted not in what’s happening to us but in Who is living within us.

Joy is not the absence of suffering—it is the presence of God.

The fruit of joy grows in the soul that trusts, surrenders, and hopes—even in darkness. It is a sign that the Holy Spirit is quietly active, nourishing the heart with a peace that surpasses understanding.

 

What Does Scripture Say?

• Philippians 4:4 – “Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice!”
• Nehemiah 8:10 – “The joy of the Lord is your strength.”
• Romans 12:12 – “Rejoice in hope, be patient in affliction, be persistent in prayer.”

Scripture teaches that joy is both a command and a gift. It is God’s strength pulsing through us—especially in times of trial.

 

What Does the Church Say?

From the Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church (384):

“The fruits of the Spirit are perfections that the Holy Spirit forms in us as the first fruits of eternal glory.”

Joy is not a surface reaction—it is a foretaste of heaven. In Catholic teaching, joy is closely tied to the virtue of hope and the grace of gratitude.

From the Catechism (CCC 1829), we are reminded:

“The fruits of charity are joy, peace, and mercy...”

That is, true joy flows from love—and bears peace in its wake.

 

How Does Joy Connect with the Gifts of the Spirit?

• Wisdom helps us to rejoice in God’s goodness beyond life’s circumstances.
• Understanding allows us to see God's hand even in confusion or grief.
• Fortitude gives us the strength to carry joy into painful situations, not as denial, but as a quiet light.

Joy and sorrow can coexist—but joy never leaves when it comes from the Holy Spirit. It is steady, rooted, and quietly radiant.

 

Practicing the Fruit of Joy

To grow in joy is to choose to live in the awareness of God’s presence and faithfulness. Here are some tangible ways to practice this fruit:

• Start a gratitude rhythm: Each morning or evening, name three small blessings—sunlight on your window, a kind word, a moment of rest.
• Smile with intention: Offer a genuine smile to someone today—not because everything is perfect, but because God is present.
• Surrender expectations: Joy grows when we let go of needing life to look a certain way and trust God with how it actually unfolds.
• Celebrate small victories: Did you finish something hard? Make it through a tough day? Give thanks. Joy is found in acknowledging progress, not perfection.
• Find joy in service: Offer your time or talents quietly for the good of another—joy often blooms in acts of hidden love.

“Joy is the most infallible sign of the presence of God.” — Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

 

Journal Opportunity: Reflecting on Joy

1. What brings me joy at this stage of my life?
2. When was the last time I felt deeply joyful? What made it so?
3. What is robbing me of joy right now—and what might God be saying in that place?
4. How can I welcome joy in ordinary tasks this week?
5. Where is the Holy Spirit inviting me to rejoice—even if circumstances haven’t changed?

Closing Prayer

Come, Holy Spirit,
awaken joy within me.
Remind me that my joy is not tied to outcomes, but to your presence.
When I feel discouraged, lift my heart.
When I forget your goodness, gently remind me again.
Teach me to rejoice always—not just in moments of gladness, but even in moments of trust.
Let my life reflect the joy that comes from walking with you. Amen.