Joy and Credible Christianity

Joy is at the heart of satisfied living. It is also at the heart of real and credible Christianity, the Christianity that glorifies God and shakes the world. As joy is, to quote C.S. Lewis, 'the serious business of heaven,' so it is central to serious godliness on earth. 'The kingdom of heaven is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit' (Rom. 14:17). A joyless Christianity (and joylessness cannot be hidden) will become an obstacle to believing Paul's statement and will render the faith repulsive rather than attractive. However, a joyful Christianity is a most arresting advertisement for the transforming power of the Gospel. So all who hope to cut ice as witnesses for Christ will do well to study the art of joy as part of their spiritual preparation.

-J.I. Packer, God's Plans For You, pp. 109-110