Good Morning,

As Christians, even in struggle, we are to have joy, not because the hardship is easy, but because joy reminds us that the hardship is not the whole story. Even in struggle, we are still called to have joy. Not because the burden is light, not because the road is easy, and not because the tears are not real—but because our joy is not rooted in what we see. Our joy is rooted in the God who walks with us through every valley, strengthens us in every storm, and reminds us that trouble does not get the final word. When everything feels dark, intentionally look for tiny glimmers of gratitude to help shift your perspective.

Joy is the quiet decision to keep hope alive, to notice small blessings, and to believe that growth is still happening even when the path feels heavy. Struggle can shape patience, deepen faith, and reveal the strength we did not know we carried. You may be weary, but we are not abandoned. We may not understand the season we are in, but we still trust the One who holds our lives. Joy does not deny the struggle; joy declares that God is greater than the struggle. The Apostle Paul in Romans 15:13 said; Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Carrying joy through your struggles is a powerful act of resilience. The very place that feels like pressure can become the place where patience is formed, faith is deepened, and your character is refined. What was meant to break you can become the testimony that proves God was keeping you all along. Joy is not just a feeling; it is a witness that tells the world your hope is alive, your faith is standing, and your God is still good. Therefore, even in struggle, keep your joy, because the same God who brought you through before can bring you through again.

Thank you for your financial contributions to support the church’s work. Please continue to mail your checks to Payne Chapel A.M.E. Church, 2701 Lee St, Houston, Texas 77026, or use Givelify.com (Payne Chapel A.M.E. Church—Houston, Texas).

Finally, I want to leave you with this thought for meditation: “God made us for joy. God is joy, and the joy of living reflects the original joy that God felt in creating us.” – Pope John Paul II.

Always Pray.

Pastor Kevin L. Bullock, Sr.