Why can believers have joy unspeakable even when hard things happen in this life?
Believers can have joy unspeakable because joy comes from within by the indwelling Holy Spirit and what God has done on their behalf. Regardless of what happens in this life, they have eternal life and God's promises, which produce real joy. Happiness depends on circumstances, but joy remains even in trials.
Les explains that joy is not the same as happiness. Happiness is the result of circumstances—health, paid bills, money in the bank, a decent car, a nice home—and those things are only circumstantial, having nothing to do with the inner life. Joy, however, is that which is within, coming as a result of the Holy Spirit indwelling us and what God has done on our behalf. Because believers have life eternal and the promises of all things God has prepared, they can have joy unspeakable regardless of what may happen to them in this life. Whether they have money in the bank or are in trial and tribulations, they can still have joy, though they may not be happy.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
More Questions
What is the difference between happiness and joy?
Happiness, unlike joy, is the result of our circumstances — things like good health, paid bills, money in the bank, a decent car, and a nice home.