Circumstances Don’t Have to Define Your Joy
Scroll to read a recap of Pastor Caleb Culver’s sermon from August 3, 2025!
We will never achieve joy if we are not satisfied with the surpassing worth of knowing Jesus—regardless of whether or not life looks how we want. The world aims to distract us from God’s Word through pressure and uncertainty, but our lasting peace can only be found in His Word.
The Bible isn’t just an old book filled with rules, stories, or fables—it’s personal, living, and close to us. Not only does it speak to what we’re walking through, it reads us, because it is the living Word of God.
Imagine standing in front of something as massive as Niagara Falls. The sound, the force, the rush of water—it stops you in your tracks. You feel its weight. That kind of wonder is the posture Scripture invites. Not casual. Not hurried. Just present in its weight.
The problem is, we often reverse that. We treat the stress of our lives as the roaring force—our Niagara Falls—while God’s Word becomes the background noise.
Psalm 119:161 says, “Though rulers persecute me without cause, my heart stands in awe of your word.”
Despite pressure and opposition, the writer remains in awe of God’s Word—not his circumstances. That’s not fear. It’s reverence for His holy ways. A recognition that there’s something more enduring than what’s happening around us.
Hebrews 4:12 describes Scripture as “living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword.” It speaks to our present moment, not just our theology. It exposes what’s broken but also brings healing. One word from God has the power to shift everything.
And beyond clarity, there’s joy. Psalm 119:162 says, “I rejoice in your word like one who finds great treasure.” Not temporary happiness. Not something dependent on outcomes. But real, lasting joy that fills every empty void within us.
That kind of joy doesn’t come from everything going right. It comes from trust—from knowing who’s speaking and choosing to believe Him, even when life is uncertain. Even when prayers feel unanswered.
C.S. Lewis once wrote that the things we chase—experiences, art, relationships—are often just hints of a deeper longing. That longing is for God. And His Word brings us closer to Him. With all the beauty in the world, it points to something greater. Our great Creator gave us these experiences to draw us closer to Him.
That perspective reshapes how we face hard things. When difficulty comes, it doesn’t have the final word—God does. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego knew this when they said, “Our God will deliver us. But even if He doesn’t, we will not bow.” Their confidence wasn’t tied to the outcome. It was tied to who they trusted. Regardless of how things turned out, they had lasting and fulfilling peace.
The peace and joy Scripture offers don’t mean life gets easier. But they do mean we’re not walking through it alone.
Psalm 119:167 says, “My soul keeps your testimonies; I love them exceedingly.” That kind of love doesn’t happen overnight. It grows with time, honesty, and a willingness to keep coming back—especially when it’s hard.
Joy, peace, and purpose aren’t abstract ideas or distant goals. They’re real, and they’re found in the presence and promises of God spoken to us through His Word.
Tap to watch Pastor Caleb Culver’s full sermon on Youtube.
Here's a 5-day devotional guide based on this sermon:
Day 1: Standing in Awe of God’s Word
Reading: Psalm 119:161–168
Devotional: In a world full of distractions and fears, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. The psalmist reminds us that even when facing persecution, his heart stands in awe of God’s word. Reflect on your relationship with Scripture. Do you see it as a powerful, life-changing force or just a collection of rules? Ask God to renew your sense of wonder and reverence for His Word. Consider how you can prioritize time in Scripture so its truths can shape your perspective and calm your fears.
Day 2: Finding Joy in God’s Promises
Reading: John 15:9–11
Devotional: Jesus teaches that true joy comes from abiding in His love and keeping His commandments. This joy doesn’t depend on circumstances but on our connection with Him. Meditate on God’s promises today. How might your life change if you truly believed and lived by these promises? Challenge yourself to find joy not in temporary pleasures or achievements but in knowing, believing, and obeying God’s Word. Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you with joy that goes beyond your current situation.
Day 3: The Shepherd’s Guidance
Reading: Psalm 23
Devotional: David’s psalm paints a picture of God as our shepherd, leading us through green pastures and dark valleys. Reflect on times you’ve felt God’s guidance and protection. How has He provided for you, even in tough times? Today, practice surrendering your path to the Good Shepherd. Trust that He knows the way—even when you can’t see it. Ask for the faith to follow His lead, knowing His rod and staff bring comfort and direction.
Day 4: Overcoming Fear with Faith
Reading: Isaiah 41:10–13
Devotional: Fear can paralyze us and make us forget God’s power and presence. Isaiah reminds us that God is with us, strengthening and upholding us. Identify areas in your life where fear has taken hold and bring them before God. Ask Him to replace your fear with faith. Remember the same God who created the universe holds you in His hand. How would your decisions change if you truly believed you had nothing to fear? Take a step of faith today, trusting God’s promise to be with you.
Day 5: Joy in the Midst of Trials
Reading: James 1:2–4
Devotional: James offers a surprising idea: consider trials as joy. This doesn’t mean enjoying pain, but recognizing the growth that comes through challenges. Reflect on a current difficulty. How might God be using it to build your character and deepen your faith? Ask for strength to persevere and wisdom to learn from the experience. Choose to rejoice—not in the trial itself, but in knowing God is working through it for your good and His glory.
There’s an opportunity for you to grow in your spiritual journey, build meaningful community, and truly get connected. At Radiant Church, we’re passionate about helping people grow in faith, encounter the presence of God, and be part of a church grounded in Spirit and truth.