Joy Begins with Presence

Presence is more than simply being there. It is a way of attending—to God, to ourselves, and to others—that gently opens the heart to a deep and lasting joy. Psychology, Scripture, and spiritual wisdom all point to the same truth: when our scattered attention is gathered into the present moment, joy becomes not something we chase, but something we receive.

Being present to God lies at the heart of spiritual joy. Scripture reminds us, “In your presence there is fullness of joy”(Psalm 16:11). This joy is not excitement or emotional comfort; it is a quiet gladness that flows from staying with God. Simple practices such as silent prayer, meditative reading of Scripture, or repeating a short prayer—“Lord Jesus Christ, you are with me”—help us rest in God here and now. Christian tradition calls this practicing the presence of God, a way of living that offers courage in suffering and a joy not dependent on circumstances.

Being present to oneself is equally important. Psychology shows that gentle awareness of the present moment reduces emotional reactivity and increases well-being. When we notice our thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations with compassion, we become less ruled by fear and more open to simple joys. For Christians, this is not self-absorption but honest self-awareness before God. Like the Psalmist, we bring our whole heart—joy and pain alike—into prayer, trusting that nothing within us is outside God’s care.

Being present to others completes the circle. Henri Nouwen spoke of the ministry of presence as the willingness to be with others without trying to fix or explain. This kind of attentive, nonjudgmental presence can be deeply healing. Psychology affirms this wisdom: genuine, empathic relationships are among the strongest sources of human happiness, and such care is communicated less through advice and more through undivided attention.

Joy, then, is not something we pursue directly. It grows quietly as we learn to stay—present to God who loves us, to our own hearts with compassion, and to others with humble attention. Where presence deepens, joy begins.

Presence is the soil where joy quietly grows.

 

Notes

Brown, K. W., & Ryan, R. M. (2003). The benefits of being present: Mindfulness and psychological well-being.
https://selfdeterminationtheory.org/SDT/documents/2003_BrownRyan.pdf

American Psychological Association. (2012). What are the benefits of mindfulness?
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2012/07-08/ce-corner

Nouwen, H. J. M. (2009). The healing power of presence. Shalem Institute.
https://shalem.org/2009/01/14/the-healing-power-of-presence-a-visit-with-henri-nouwen/

The Gospel Coalition. (2024). How to find joy in God’s presence.
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/how-to-find-joy-in-gods-presence/

Well-Watered Women. (2023). Rejoicing in God’s presence.
https://wellwateredwomen.com/rejoicing-in-gods-presence/

Joy Begins With Presence.

Explore this theme in three different formats—each offering a unique way to reflect and engage:

📄 Article: https://lifespring-wholeness.blogspot.com/2026/01/joy-begins-with-presence.html

 🎧 Audio: https://youtu.be/B9caf9_hE9Y

🎥 Video: https://youtu.be/mCc1kNi7-ss