Is anyone truly joyful: The Missing Link in Real Faith
From the Called to Love Podcast with James Levisee and Brian Knoedl
There are two things every Christian should do—and if you’re not doing them, you’re missing out. What are they? In short: cultivate a real relationship with God and walk closely with people who model that relationship. These two rhythms open the door to freedom, joy, and a faith that actually shows up in everyday life.
Why Joy Seems So Rare
We read about joy and freedom in Scripture, yet it often feels like few people have it. If you’ve ever scanned faces in a big-box store and wondered, “Who’s really joyful?” you’re not alone. The question is: what are the components that lead to a life like that?
Clue #1: Relationships that Point to Jesus
A friend’s life changed after years of frustration—and when asked what flipped the switch, he pointed to another man at the table. That relationship made Jesus real: patient, present, and not trying to get anything in return. He simply wanted to introduce him to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in a way he hadn’t “tasted” before.
Yielding to the Holy Spirit
It’s one thing to know the Holy Spirit is present; it’s another to let Him move in your heart. To the degree you yield to the Spirit, to that degree you’ll see His fruit flowing through your life. But most of us don’t yield to strangers—we yield when something becomes believable and personal. That’s what real relationships do: they make the life of God believable.
Seeing, Then Seeking
Many of us first get hungry by watching others who carry authentic joy. We see people who spend time with God and actually change. The natural next step is to ask, “How do I get that?” The answer isn’t complicated: spend time with God and spend time with people who do. Ask questions. Observe their daily rhythms. Imitate what’s biblical and life-giving.
Not a Platform—A Path
The impulse after encountering God is often to “get into ministry” fast. But Jesus shows us a different order. After His baptism and empowerment by the Spirit, He didn’t rush to build a platform. The Spirit led Him into the wilderness first. Preparation comes before proclamation. Temptation and formation come before public influence.
Expect the War—Walk with the Helper
When you change direction toward Jesus, expect resistance. The enemy will surface your past, send distractions, and aim for discouragement. This is why we need the Spirit as our Guide in the journey—He trains us to submit to God, resist the devil, and keep walking.
Love That’s Learned in Relationship
Jesus said the world will know we’re His disciples by our love. But love isn’t learned by announcements; it’s learned in relationship—first with the Father, then with people. That’s why the apostles became who they became: because they knew Jesus, walked with Him, and continued in the Spirit’s power.
If You Don’t Have a Model Nearby
Start in the secret place. God meets you there. As that relationship grows, give it away—share what God is doing in you. Best case, find someone who looks like Christ and learn their daily practices. This isn’t about hero worship; it’s about apprenticing in the way of Jesus.
Influence Follows Intimacy
Jesus wasn’t chasing leadership or influence—He was pursuing His Father. Out of that intimacy flowed trust, credibility, and the kind of leadership that actually changes people. Don’t think “be more spiritual.” Think “be more relational”—with God and with people.
Try This This Week
- Set a daily 20–30 minute “secret place” appointment—Scripture, silence, and simple prayer: “Holy Spirit, I yield to You.”
- Identify one mature believer who radiates joy. Ask them what their day with God really looks like—and try one of their practices for seven days.
- Share one thing God is teaching you with a friend. Give away what you’re receiving.
Until next time, may you find peace and love—and remember: you are called to love.
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