Let’s talk about joy. Jesuit priest Pierre Teilhard de Chardin said, “Joy is the surest sign of the presence of God.”
I agree. God is the author of joy. Even for the addict and the offended spouse, joy is an option. Paul knew a little about persecution and injustices when he prayed, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy” (Romans 15:13).
The brother of our Lord said, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds” (James 1:2).
I know two things about joy:
- It is a gift.
- It is a choice.
Keep in mind, joy is not the same thing as happiness. Happiness is dependent on circumstances. Joy is dependent on our connection with God, and joy is available for each of us.
Recovery Step: Life can be hard. Recovery is hard. Trauma is hard. But joy is still possible.
Author: Mark Denison
Mark and Beth Denison, married for 36 years, launched There’s Still Hope as a national movement to call men and women into lives of sexual integrity. Their ministry offers 90-day recovery plans for addicts and one-on-one and group coaching for addicts and their spouses. TSH also produces resources for pastors and churches to confront the porn epidemic that is destroying so many lives.
Dr. Denison was a senior pastor for over 30 years, NBA chaplain, and board chairman at Houston Baptist University three times. With a Master’s Degree in Addiction Recovery, Mark is a certified PSAP and active member of the American Association of Christian Counselors.
Mark has written four books on recovery: Porn in the Pew, 365 Days to Sexual Integrity, A 90-Day Recovery Guide, and 40 Days to Porn-Free Living. His latest book, Jesus on the 12 Steps, will be released later this year.
