Biblical joy refers to a deep and abiding sense of gladness, delight, and contentment that is rooted in one’s salvation by grace through faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ. It is a spiritual quality that transcends mere happiness, which is often based on external circumstances and temporary pleasures. In the Bible, joy is frequently mentioned as a characteristic of believers and is considered one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit, see Galatians 5:22: Biblical joy is not dependent on the absence of difficulties or trials, but rather it can coexist with them. It is a deep-seated assurance that comes from knowing that God is sovereign, loving, and faithful, even in the midst of challenging circumstances. It is a joy that remains steadfast because it is grounded in the unchanging nature of God and His promises.
Biblical joy is not self-centered or selfish, but rather it is often accompanied by a sense of gratitude and a desire to share that joy with others. Ultimately, biblical joy is a gift from God, bestowed upon those who trust in Him and seek to live in accordance with His will.
In this way, our editors assembled this list of the best books on biblical joy to consider reading. The titles below represent the most popular available for purchase on the web.
Note: We only included the best books on biblical joy with a 4-star or better ranking and a minimum of 100 reviews.
The Best Books on Biblical Joy
The Joy of Fearing God
Author/Publisher: Jerry Bridges
From the publisher: “We all want a deeper, more intimate relationship with God–one that’s characterized by joy. But how does fearing God lead to joy? After all, aren’t we supposed to love Him and live in intimate relationship with Him? Jerry Bridges explores this paradox as he unpacks the biblical promise that God delights in those who fear Him.”
Joy!: God’s Secret Weapon for Every Believer
Author/Publisher:
From the publisher: “In these pages, Georgian will help you become a friend of God and know Him as an affectionate Father; discover performance-free grace in the fullness of what Christ has done; put an end to religious striving and self-effort; find victory over the power of sin so you can be both holy and happy; be the hands and feet of Jesus accomplishing His justice in the world.”
The Power of Christian Contentment: Finding Deeper, Richer Christ-Centered Joy
Author/Publisher: Andrew M. Davis
From the publisher: “With powerful new illustrations and a keen sense of all that makes modern Christians restless, Davis challenges readers to confront the sources of discontent in their lives and embrace Paul’s teaching on contentment in all circumstances. He gives special attention to maintaining contentment through poverty and prosperity, as well as in our marriages, and offers tips on teaching children how to be content in an age of smartphones and social media.”
Joy: A Study of Philippians
Author/Publisher: Deb Burma
From the publisher: “Sure, we find joy in our triumphs, but not so much in the trials. Yet real joy, genuine joy, is always ours in the saving grace of Christ Jesus. This women’s Bible study on the Book of Philippians, the “letter of joy,” unpacks messages of contentment, confidence, humility, and hope – all found in Christ and infused with joy – in the mountaintop moments and in the mundane.”
Choose Joy Women’s Devotional: Finding Joy No Matter What You’re Going Through
Author/Publisher: Kay Warren
From the publisher: “With deep compassion born from experience, Kay Warren offers thirty devotions based on the life-giving principles of her book Choose Joy. Each devotion begins with an encouraging Scripture, followed by Kay’s wise words on how to live with joy even when life is hard, our plans are shattered, our health fails, or it feels like we are walking through life alone. Each devotion ends with a short prayer to help bring us closer to the source of all joy–our loving God.”
Enduring Trials God’s Way: A Biblical Guide to Finding Joy in Suffering
Author/Publisher: Scott LaPierre
From the publisher: “The principles in this book will encourage you during tribulations and give you the Christian grief counseling you need. There are many books on suffering, but not many are grounded in the Bible. Pastor Scott LaPierre discusses Christian suffering so believers receive the biblical inspiration they need.”
Joy in the Sorrow: How a Thriving Church (and its Pastor) Learned to Suffer Well
Author/Publisher: Matt Chandler
From the publisher: “As a young pastor, Matt Chandler knew he needed to learn how to help hurting people. He studied the Scriptures, and he learned from people at the Village Church who remained joyful in their suffering. And then suddenly he was having to live what he’d learned. This is the moving story of Matt’s battle with a potentially fatal brain tumor. But it’s also the stories of those who taught him, and teach him, how to walk with joy in sorrow.”
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