What is joy according to the fruit of the Spirit?
Joy is an inner quality produced by the Holy Spirit indwelling the believer, rooted in what God has done on our behalf. It is joy unspeakable because, regardless of life's trials, we have eternal life and God's promises. Unlike happiness, which depends on circumstances, joy remains within.
Les explains that joy is not the same as happiness. Joy comes from within as a result of the Holy Spirit indwelling the believer and because of what God has done on our behalf. It is joy unspeakable because, no matter what may happen in this life, we have eternal life and the promises of all God has prepared for us. Happiness, by contrast, is the result of circumstances—health, paid bills, money in the bank, a decent car, or a nice home. Those are circumstantial and have nothing to do with the inner life. So joy is that which 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.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
More Questions
which fruits of the Spirit relate to how we treat other people?
The fruits of the Spirit that govern our relationships with others (neighbor/family) are long-suffering (patience), gentleness, and goodness.