stephen R Harrison

2025 was great in many ways! It was our 25th wedding anniversary. My oldest daughter was married and had graduated from college. My middle daughter graduated from high school and began (and loves) cosmetology school. January begins my 5th year as pastor of my church, which has grown every year (especially in unity, discipleship, and mission). I work with an incredible ministry team. I also published my 10th book! A lot of milestones to be thankful for, each bringing significant joy.

What lies ahead for 2026? I have labeled it “the year of joy”. With all of those great moments, I lacked significant joy. It wasn’t because of the people or moments mentioned above. I love my wife, kids, church, and friends. I’ve struggled with depression for several years, and joy sometimes evades me. In its place often lurks insignificance, loneliness, and inadequacy. Add to that lingering grief of lost loved ones, disappointments in ministry, and the longing for deep friendships, and it can be a disheartening recipe. The antidote to these begins with time spent with the Lord in prayer and His Word. Serving, encouraging, and generosity also combat these joy thieves. It’s true what I learned in childrens’ church long ago, J.O.Y. comes in that order – Jesus, Others, Yourself!

Joy is more than chasing a feeling. Often, that “feeling” elusively zigzags down the insufficient path of discontentment. Joy isn’t a circumstance or a mood. It isn’t found in the fleeting pleasures of this rollercoaster ride of life in this uncertain world. Joy is a choice. When we choose to trust in the sufficiency of God and the truth of His Word, we find true joy – we find Him! He’s lifegiving and fulfilling. He brings contentment. He is my purpose and joy. A popular slogan is “you are enough”. NOT TRUE! He’s enough!

One goal I have is to write something every day about the joy of the Lord. I think it will include a Bible verse, a “glimpse” of the joy of the Lord, and a prayer. I’ve learned that if I look for those joy moments, they are always there. I miss them when I fix my eyes on anything other than the Lord to supply it. I don’t know about you, but I need a year of joy. I’ll be looking for the joy that comes from the Lord this year. Will you join me?

“This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” -Nehemiah 8:10