For everything on earth, there is a time and a season. Nothing exists in this world without going through its own phase. Just as we experience the four natural seasons - summer, winter, autumn, and spring, each with its unique features and events, so also do we, as humans, pass through various seasons of life: times to plant, to nurture, and to harvest.
Yet, amidst these seasons, there are moments when it feels as though the world is against us.
A few months ago, I found myself in such a season - overwhelmed, weary, and downcast because of all I was going through. It felt as though life had turned against me. I couldn't pray, and the things I once loved, especially writing, became burdensome. Instead of being a ministry and an outlet, writing became a weight. I stopped altogether because I was drained—spiritually, mentally, emotionally. I withdrew into myself, unable to explain what was wrong. I simply wasn’t okay and desperately needed a break from everything life had to offer.
It was a dark season—disheartening and heavy. Some mistook my silence for pride, while a few who truly cared reached out. This phase continued until God met me in the midst of my despair and gave me a new song. He reminded me that He was there, closer than anyone I could imagine. And that’s where my healing began.
Too often, the people around us go silent, not out of pride or neglect, but because of the heavy seasons they’re enduring. We’re just too unaware to notice. For anyone going through a difficult season, I pray the Lord gives you rest and opens your eyes to the victory that is already yours in Him.
How Did I Find Joy Even at My Lowest?
Joy is very different from happiness, though the two are often confused. Happiness is external and fleeting, based on circumstances. Joy, however, is internal. It is not tied to what you have or what you receive. Joy is a divine identity you carry, even in the middle of the storm.
Let’s take a look at a few scriptural figures who found joy in their darkest moments:
1. David
David, known as a man after God's heart, went through severe trials. He was hunted by King Saul, and death seemed imminent. In one of his lowest moments, he found refuge in the cave of Adullam. There, isolated and distressed, he discovered a new song. Even in his pain, he became a leader to 400 men who were in debt, depressed, and displaced. Though David had no peace or clear plan, he clung to one truth: "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want."
David found joy by holding onto the presence of God.
2. Jesus Christ
Jesus exemplifies the weight of purpose and the anguish it can bring. As His crucifixion neared, He was deeply troubled. In the Garden of Gethsemane, He prayed with such intensity that His sweat became like drops of blood. Yet in that place of agony, He found strength—a new song of surrender—and angels came to comfort Him.
Joy came, not from escape, but from divine presence and resolve.
How to Find Joy in Difficult Seasons
1. Know You Are Not Alone
No matter what you're going through, God is with you. This is why David could say, "Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me."
God will never abandon you. Just like He whispered to me, “I am closer to you than the closest person you know.”
2. Understand That the Season Is Temporary
One of the greatest lies the enemy tells us is that pain will last forever. But every season passes. That’s why we must protect our joy, because when the night ends, joy awaits us in the morning.
3. Find Solace in God’s Word
Your lowest moments are not the time to distance yourself from God. Though it may be hard, press in. Listen to uplifting messages, worship songs, and surround yourself with encouragement. God’s Word becomes your anchor, your peace, and your strength.
Conclusion
Dark times don’t last. As scripture reminds us, “Weeping may endure for the night, but joy comes in the morning.”
Even if you’re weeping now, joy is near. You’ll find it when you realize you’re not alone, when you take solace in God's Word, and when you believe that your struggle is only for a season.
Remember: Joy is not the absence of trouble, but the presence of God in the midst of it.
Shalom.
Thank you for this 💯.
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