We don’t have to get too far into the Christmas season before we hear or see the word “joy.”  The running scale of the song “Joy to the World” fills the radio. The gorgeous font of the letters j-o-y on cards, photos, and home décor remind us that joy is central to this season. But a quick visit to the store with a tired child, or yet another Christmas party when you’re already feeling weary, can squelch all joy.

How do we teach real biblical joy to our children in spite of what is happening around us? When our kids (or we) need a reminder about the source and benefit of true joy, we can turn to the Bible for uplifting words.

5 Bible Memory Verses for Kids About Joy

Philippians 4:4 (ESV)

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.

Psychology echoes the teachings of Paul—for joy to abound, we must keep it at the forefront of our minds. As a family, create a journal of thanksgiving or collect slips of paper on which each family member writes a daily blessing from God then place in a jar.    

Galatians 5:22-23a (ESV)

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

Paul reminds believers that because of the Holy Spirit’s indwelling, they no longer have to behave the way they did before becoming a Christian. These verses are a call to be different because of Christ in you. The Holy Spirit can empower you to choose the fruits of the Spirit over old sinful ways. This includes joy!

Romans 15:13 (NIV)

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Hope, joy, and peace-these are the words of Christmas. We have the hope that as we trust in God, He will fill us with His joy and peace.    

James 1:2-4 (NIV)

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

It is easy to have joy when things are going well, but trials can crush the spirit. You can help your children learn that trials have purpose and that knowing God is growing us through them will help us remain joyful.

Proverbs 17:22 (ESV)

A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.

I can’t hear this verse without singing the verse in my head. Joy is good for our souls. It is also contagious. When we choose joy, our family will as well.

May your Christmas overflow with the Joy of the Savior.

Download a printable for these 5 Bible Memory Verses About Joy

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Heidi Franz is a devoted wife, momma of four, and the creative force behind ABCJesusLovesMe.com, a popular Preschool Bible Curriculum website. Passionate about teaching the truths of the Bible, she shares her wisdom and experiences on her blog and podcast at ParentingtoImpress.com. Heidi enjoys peanut M&M’s, laughing with her family, and having honest conversations. With a deep desire to encourage and empower, she connects with others through speaking engagements and social media.