You know it’s easy to be miserable. Think about it. The people around you who are constant complainers. Those people who seem to claim nothing is right ever. Complaining, griping, whining, grousing—whatever you want to call it, it’s a spiritual problem.

Choose joy. Joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit.

I know that sounds really simple. The truth is that most issues in our lives come from the fact that we are setting ourself at the center of  life. I’m not talking about dealing with the very real, very sobering, very heart-wrenching realities that millions of people in the world face every day. Horrible things are happening in this country and around the world as I type this, and as Christians, we are called to attend to the hurting and poor and to offer help that is both spiritual and tangible. Those things deserve true grieving and tears and a mighty response of compassion.

Complaining about life and seeking justice for genuine wrongs are two different things.

1 Corinthians 4:7 asks the question: “What do you have that you did not receive?”

Coming out of Easter I think we need to be joyful. The resurrection is the proof that we have been saved and that we can attain heaven.

Joy, on the other hand, is from God and runs deeper — it can be present even during unhappy times.The world ascribes value to what people own — salary, wealth, power, appearance and fame. As a Christian, you are worthy because Jesus is worthy. God’s love has made you important to Him. Without having to prove yourself, you are free to enjoy your life, no matter your circumstances.

When good things happen, you may give God credit for it. When bad things happen, you may feel God has turned His back on you. In Psalms, read how David turned toward God amid crises and was rewarded with joy.

Joy comes from knowing God, enjoying what God has done for you and believing that He constantly cares for you.