Where does real joy come from?
Real joy comes from within as a result of the Holy Spirit indwelling us and what God has done on our behalf. It is grounded in eternal life and God's promises, not in favorable circumstances like health, paid bills, money, cars, or homes. Circumstances produce happiness, but inner joy remains even in trials.
Les explains that joy is that which comes from within as a result of the Holy Spirit indwelling us and as a result of what God has done on our behalf. We have joy unspeakable because regardless of what may happen to us in this life, we have life eternal and the promises of all things God has prepared for us. That precipitates real joy. Happiness, on the other hand, is the result of our circumstances—if everything is going well, you're healthy, bills are paid, you have money in the bank, a decent car, and a nice home. But those things are circumstantial and have nothing to do with the inner life. So joy is within; whether you have money in the bank or are in trial and tribulations, you can still have joy, though you won't be happy.