Joy in suffering? At first, it sounds as out of place as a snowstorm in July. But Paul shows us that even in hardship, joy is possible because suffering produces perseverance, character, and hope.

The Christmas story isn’t free from struggle. Mary and Joseph faced rejection and uncertainty, yet their journey brought them to the joy of Jesus. Advent reminds us that joy isn’t found in perfect circumstances—it’s found in knowing Jesus is with us, even in life’s messiest moments. And it’s even better when we have a church family that’s willing to meet us in that very same messiness of life.

Reflection: How can you lean into joy, even when life feels hard this season?

Application: Look for glimpses of Christ’s presence in your challenges. Joy isn’t the absence of struggle; it’s the presence of hope in the midst of struggle.