Day 9 “Joy vs. Happiness”

Day 9 Devotional – Joy vs. Happiness

40 Days of Fasting

Scripture:

“You make known to me the path of life; in Your presence there is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”

— Psalm 16:11 (ESV)

Devotional Message

As you enter Day 9 of your fast, you might feel the emotional highs and lows more keenly than ever. Fasting tends to strip away our usual comforts and reveal the raw places in our hearts. It’s here that God wants to speak a powerful truth: there’s a difference between happiness and joy.

Happiness is a choice. It’s tied to our circumstances—good news, a fun day, a kind word, a goal achieved. Happiness rises and falls with the tides of life. One moment we feel happy, the next moment a trial comes, and it’s gone. There’s nothing wrong with happiness—it’s a beautiful gift. But it’s fragile.

Joy, however, comes from God. It’s not rooted in circumstances but in the presence of the Holy Spirit living within us. Joy says:

• “Even when I don’t see the way forward, I trust God has a plan.”

• “Even in tears, I believe God is good.”

• “Even when I feel empty, I know God is enough.”

  
  

During your fast, you may not always feel happy. Hunger, fatigue, and spiritual battles can make your emotions swing. But this is precisely where God calls you deeper into joy.

Joy sustains you. Joy strengthens you. Joy becomes your anchor when everything else shakes. Jesus Himself endured the cross “for the joy set before Him” (Hebrews 12:2). His joy wasn’t based on comfort—it was anchored in purpose and love.

Today, choose happiness where you can—smile, laugh, find gratitude in small things. But above all, seek the joy that comes only from abiding in God’s presence. It’s supernatural, steady, and unshakable. Let His joy rise up in you today, even in the midst of fasting.

Reflection Questions:

1. What’s one thing that makes you happy right now?

2. What circumstances in your life threaten to steal your happiness?

3. How has God given you joy even in hard times?

4. How can you intentionally spend time in God’s presence today to cultivate joy?

5. Can you recall a time when joy carried you through a storm? Write it down as a testimony.

Prayer:

Father, thank You that joy is found in Your presence, not in my circumstances. Teach me to choose happiness when I can and to hold tightly to the joy You give me. Let Your joy be my strength today as I continue this fast. Even if my feelings waver, help me stand firm in the truth that You are my source of true joy. In Jesus’ name, Amen.