Joy and Happiness are Two Different Things

A need for "happiness" is an indicator of lack of faith and insecurity, even immaturity. When we are born again our joy never leaves us even through all we have to endure on this earth. We can grieve and weep over hard things and still have the joy of the Lord because we know He has us.

Happiness is based on external circumstances but the joy of the Lord is based our our eternal relationship with the Holy God.

Joy goes with us through all things we must endure, but happiness leaves us as soon as things get rough. Happiness comes and goes but joy never leaves us when we are in Christ. Happiness is superficial but joy is deep within our souls.

Nehemiah *:10 "Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the Lord is your strength."