This free pamphlet provides some biblical, New Testament verses in regard to Joy and Joy to the World. This is available from Cafe Logos, the Canadian Bible Society @1207 Kingsway,Vancouver.
Joy To The World, Canadian Bible Society (2018).
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Reviewing this today, theologically, a reasonable, true, non-exhaustive, definition for Joy is that Joy is from God to the believer in Jesus Christ; and is pleasure in experiencing God, despite circumstances.
Happiness, in contrast is more based on circumstances.
From the archives of my second website, Satire Und Theology...
Browning reasons Biblical 'joy' is more than an emotion, as it combines a sense of human happiness with a state of blessedness. In the Old Testament it is marked by festivals (Deuteronomy 12) and by settlements of grievances brought to the Temple (Psalms 43). In the New Testament he explains that 'joy' is prominent in Luke/Acts due to the gifts of the Holy Spirit, which can also be seen in Galatians 5. Browning (1997: 210).
Creath Davis explains 'joy' is a delight in life that goes deeper than pain or pleasure and from a Biblical perspective would not be limited or tied to external circumstances. Davis (1999: 588). 'Joy' is given from God as a gift and can be experienced during very difficult and extreme circumstances. Davis (1999: 588).
In both Testaments 'joy' is presented as sign of one being a believer and a sign in the believing community, it is a quality of life and not simply an emotional reaction or feeling. Davis (1999: 588). This 'joy' comes from God (Psalms 16, Romans 15), and is an aspect of faith and one's life with God. Davis (1999: 588). 'Joy' is also connected to weakness and suffering when it has redemptive purpose and is bringing persons to depend on God (Matthew 5 and 2 Corinthians 12). Davis (1999: 588).
Further, Davis mentions that psychologically one cannot experience 'joy' while being preoccupied with self-security, pleasure, or self-interest. Davis (1999: 588). There is a freedom that comes when God alone is the 'only adequate center for human existence, and God alone can enable persons to experience life with joyous spontaneity and to relate to others with love.' Davis (1999: 588)
From Strong. Two of the main examples of 'Joy', one from the Hebrew Bible and one from the New Testament.
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DAVIS, CREATH. (1996) ‘Joy’, in Walter A. Elwell (ed.), Evangelical Dictionary of Theology, Grand Rapids, Baker Books.
STRONG, J. (1890)(1986) Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible, Burlington, Welch Publishing Company.
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