Episode Details

In Philippians 4:4, Paul encourages us to “Rejoice in the Lord always.” But what does that really mean when life is full of stress, setbacks, and struggles? Whitney Hopler explores the difference between happiness and true joy, showing us that rejoicing in the Lord is possible even in life’s hardest moments. Drawing from Paul’s prison writings and personal reflections, this devotional reminds us that joy is not based on circumstances—it’s rooted in God’s unchanging presence and love.

✨ Highlights

• Why joy and happiness are not the same—and why joy lasts

• How to rejoice in the Lord even during trials and stress

• Paul’s example of choosing joy while imprisoned for his faith

• Practical ways to cultivate daily joy, like gratitude and noticing God’s wonder

• A reminder that joy isn’t the absence of trouble, but the presence of God

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What helps you choose joy when life feels overwhelming? Have you experienced God’s presence carrying you through a difficult season? Share your story and encourage others by tagging @LifeAudioNetwork and using #ChoosingJoy.

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Full Transcript Below:

What Does It Mean to Rejoice?

By: Whitney Hopler

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” – Philippians 4:4, NIV

When I visited the Happiness Museum in Copenhagen, Denmark, I read some of the thousands of individual sticky notes left by visitors who each wrote down something that makes them feel happy. People listed pets, friends, travel, cooking, sports, reading, walking in nature, listening to music, and much more. The note I left read: “Discovering and experiencing God’s wonder” and I was pleased to see that many other people mentioned God in their own notes. While many things can give us temporary feelings of happiness, only relationships with God can give us joy. Joy is greater than happiness, and unlike happiness, joy is possible to experience in any kind of circumstances. 

In Philippians 4:4, the Bible encourages us to rejoice all the time. Honestly, this verse can sometimes feel unrealistic. How can we rejoice alw