Life is tough, isn’t it? Bills, deadlines, relationships—it all piles up. And let’s be real, joy often feels like the first thing to disappear. But here’s the good news: joy doesn’t come from perfection; it comes from God’s presence.

Take Mary and Joseph, for example. No fancy birthing plan, no perfect setting—just a stable and God’s presence, literally, in the form of Jesus. Luke 2:6-7 reminds us that God can bring greatness and joy even in challenging, imperfect circumstances.

Main takeaway? Joy isn’t about perfect places but about the perfect presence of God. Psalm 16:11 says, “You will fill me with joy in your presence.”

Struggling today? Take 10 minutes to sit with God—pray, read Scripture, or be still. Let Him remind you that He’s with you, no matter how heavy life feels.

Remember, joy isn’t about life being perfect—it’s about trusting the perfect God who never leaves you.