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Choose Joy: Because Happiness Isn't Enough
Ever wonder why some people seem to experience joy in their daily lives--even in the tough times--and others can't seem to find it no matter how hard they search? Is a joy-filled life really possible?
The answer is yes! And it's possible for every woman, no matter what her circumstances may be. In this inspiring book, Kay Warren teaches women what joy really is, where to find it, and how to choose it in the good times and the bad. With compassion and wisdom, she shows readers--even those who live with the constant companions of discouragement and depression--that true joy is deeper, richer, and more accessible than they might think. Perfect for small groups or individual reading, Choose Joy will empower women who feel like their emotions and well-being are at the mercy of others by helping them understand the life-giving truth that joy is within their grasp--every day.
The answer is yes! And it's possible for every woman, no matter what her circumstances may be. In this inspiring book, Kay Warren teaches women what joy really is, where to find it, and how to choose it in the good times and the bad. With compassion and wisdom, she shows readers--even those who live with the constant companions of discouragement and depression--that true joy is deeper, richer, and more accessible than they might think. Perfect for small groups or individual reading, Choose Joy will empower women who feel like their emotions and well-being are at the mercy of others by helping them understand the life-giving truth that joy is within their grasp--every day.
272 pages, Paperback
First published March 15, 2012
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June 27, 2018
This book tackles something that for many people is difficult - feeling more than happiness... feeling a deep joy. It's not preachy (though it is written by a Christian minister/preacher) but it does use faith based ideas to help the reader understand that being happy is okay, but being filled with joy is the goal we should all have.
Kay Warren begins by pointing out that she is a person who has struggled with depression and feeling happy, but not joyous. Happy is a temporary emotion whereas joy is deep and long lasting. She has experienced the struggle she is hoping to help readers overcome and shares personal experiences as examples which point to where she was and how she got to where she is now.
This isn't as deep and dark as the topic might sound, so if you think this might help you on your way to a joy-filled life, be sure to check it out.
Kay Warren begins by pointing out that she is a person who has struggled with depression and feeling happy, but not joyous. Happy is a temporary emotion whereas joy is deep and long lasting. She has experienced the struggle she is hoping to help readers overcome and shares personal experiences as examples which point to where she was and how she got to where she is now.
This isn't as deep and dark as the topic might sound, so if you think this might help you on your way to a joy-filled life, be sure to check it out.
June 22, 2012
Kay Warren has written a wonderful book about how we can choose joy, even in the most difficult circumstances. The book is well written, and easy to relate to. I normally get rid of books once I've read them, but this one is going to stay on my shelf as reference; one that I'll go back to again, and again. Kay Warren's writing is so full of Biblical truth, wisdom, and insight, and definitely worth revisiting. On the inside flap of the book, it says, "Joy is deeper than happiness, lasts longer than excitement, and is more satisfying than pleasure and thrills. Joy is richer. Fuller. And it's far more accessible that you've thought. Joy comes from God . . . and it can be yours! Today."
The book is divided into four parts:
Part 1 -- Joy is My Inheritance: Embracing the Permission to be Joyful
Part 2 -- Joy is a Conviction of My Mind: Discovering a New Way of Thinking
Part 3-- Joy is the Condition of My Heart: Cultivating a Soul-Response That Allows Joy to Deepen
Part 4 -- Joy is a Choice of my Behavior: Ways to Choose Joy Daily
Each chapter opens with a scripture and a quote, and ends with a prayer, as well as points to help us reflect and apply.
There are so many great points throughout the book, but I will share a few here.
* "The only way to grow up spiritually - to become mature and well-developed in our faith - is to go through the fire of testing, trials, and troubles." (James 1:2-4)
* "In Jesus' role, he was a man of sorrow. But in his essence - who he was in his unchanging nature - he was a man of joy." We can be joyful, because Jesus has set the example for us. Even through hard times, we can choose joy.
* "Here is the foundational truth that each of us needs to remember: God is the only true source of joy." We can't find joy in the "dry wells" of people, places, possessions, position, and personalities.
* "Because God's will is good, we can embrace joy rather than fear."
* "Those who are joyful will thank God. Joy and gratitude always go together."
I highly recommend this book, and don't hesitate in suggesting that everyone should pick up a copy for themselves! This book does share a life-changing truth, and it's definitely worth the read.
"Available June 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group."
**Thank you to Revell for providing a copy to review, in exchange for my honest opinion.**
The book is divided into four parts:
Part 1 -- Joy is My Inheritance: Embracing the Permission to be Joyful
Part 2 -- Joy is a Conviction of My Mind: Discovering a New Way of Thinking
Part 3-- Joy is the Condition of My Heart: Cultivating a Soul-Response That Allows Joy to Deepen
Part 4 -- Joy is a Choice of my Behavior: Ways to Choose Joy Daily
Each chapter opens with a scripture and a quote, and ends with a prayer, as well as points to help us reflect and apply.
There are so many great points throughout the book, but I will share a few here.
* "The only way to grow up spiritually - to become mature and well-developed in our faith - is to go through the fire of testing, trials, and troubles." (James 1:2-4)
* "In Jesus' role, he was a man of sorrow. But in his essence - who he was in his unchanging nature - he was a man of joy." We can be joyful, because Jesus has set the example for us. Even through hard times, we can choose joy.
* "Here is the foundational truth that each of us needs to remember: God is the only true source of joy." We can't find joy in the "dry wells" of people, places, possessions, position, and personalities.
* "Because God's will is good, we can embrace joy rather than fear."
* "Those who are joyful will thank God. Joy and gratitude always go together."
I highly recommend this book, and don't hesitate in suggesting that everyone should pick up a copy for themselves! This book does share a life-changing truth, and it's definitely worth the read.
"Available June 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group."
**Thank you to Revell for providing a copy to review, in exchange for my honest opinion.**
Read
November 27, 2012In the last two weeks, I've been trying to dive into Kay Warren's newest book - Choose Joy: Because Happiness Isn't Enough.
Warren's writing style is warm and inviting.
But I soon learned that it's not a book that I can "speed read."
Instead, like a treat you want to savor and digest slowly, this book takes time to unpack.
Lots of time.
I'm still not finished reading it.
I love how the each chapter has questions that make you think - so you can really apply the topic to your life.
Is it easy to read. No.
Is it worth the struggle? Yes.
Am I glad that I'm reading it. Absolutely.
I'm not sure if I'm struggling with the book. Maybe God is trying to tell me something through Warren's words. (Ok. This is probably an understatement of the year.)
I know one thing.Warren has inspired me by her passion for life. I've admired her for many years for some of the actions she's taken in founding Saddleback's HIV/AIDS initiative. Her authenticity is admirable.
I keep on reading it. It may take me a while longer than normal. But that's ok. I think it will be worth it in the end.
Note: As a freelance journalist, I was provided a copy of this book by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. This review was not influenced by a free book - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.
Warren's writing style is warm and inviting.
But I soon learned that it's not a book that I can "speed read."
Instead, like a treat you want to savor and digest slowly, this book takes time to unpack.
Lots of time.
I'm still not finished reading it.
I love how the each chapter has questions that make you think - so you can really apply the topic to your life.
Is it easy to read. No.
Is it worth the struggle? Yes.
Am I glad that I'm reading it. Absolutely.
I'm not sure if I'm struggling with the book. Maybe God is trying to tell me something through Warren's words. (Ok. This is probably an understatement of the year.)
I know one thing.Warren has inspired me by her passion for life. I've admired her for many years for some of the actions she's taken in founding Saddleback's HIV/AIDS initiative. Her authenticity is admirable.
I keep on reading it. It may take me a while longer than normal. But that's ok. I think it will be worth it in the end.
Note: As a freelance journalist, I was provided a copy of this book by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. This review was not influenced by a free book - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.
March 11, 2013
There are some good points in this book, but I would not recommend it to a friend. I am only two stars because nothing stirs my blood quicker than a verse being used to prove a point that goes directly against the context of the passage in scripture. (ie. she uses 3 passages to illustrate Christ is "hilariously funny", "a riot", with "great, edgy humor"; yet two of the three scenes she chose are extremely serious, the most obvious being Mt 23:24 "straining a gnat, swallowing a camel", the surrounding verses are "woe, snakes, brood of vipers, you who kill the prophets...", one of the most condemning passages, I can hardly read chapter 23 without weeping myself. This does not illustrate humor but rather righteous anger). That said, i know that Christ was joyful, but context matters! I keep getting the feeling that this was a hard book for her to write, and though her illustration of the train tracks is EXCELLENT, I think the content should be edited and condensed to fill a much smaller book. I would highly recommend "Dangerous Surrender", and i so enjoyed K.W.'s interview on this book. .
November 27, 2022
I've so often related myself to the author of Ecclesiastes because I so felt the emotions that he must have felt while pursuing joy and meaning in this life.
I'm so grateful for the timeliness of this book in my life. Kay Warren was able to teach me that no lengths of "perfect" moments will make my life better or make me more joyful and content, but that it is my mindset and my heart that needs to change.
I want to thank God for being who He is. His timing is perfect!
I'm so grateful for the timeliness of this book in my life. Kay Warren was able to teach me that no lengths of "perfect" moments will make my life better or make me more joyful and content, but that it is my mindset and my heart that needs to change.
I want to thank God for being who He is. His timing is perfect!
April 23, 2020
4.5 stars
I've been needing to read a book like this one. A very clear, very direct reminder that joy is my inheritance as a believer in Jesus, a child of God filled with the Holy Spirit. I've always known that there is a fundamental difference between happiness and joy, but I've never been able to put my finger on exactly what it is. I know that happiness is merely a temporary reaction to present circumstances. But I loved the definition of joy in this book - "the settled assurance that God is in control of all the details of my life, the quiet confidence that ultimately everything is going to be all right, and the determined choice to praise God in all things."
That's something I want in my life.
I enjoyed the variety of topics discussed, including the "dry wells" we turn to that fail to bring us joy, the value system of heaven that changes our mindset, and the fascinating Winnie-the-Pooh School of Personalities (of which, incidentally, I am an Eeyore...). One of my favorite chapters was about how we can know Jesus as a man of joy! There were also some very practical, I-can-put-this-book-down-and-do-this-right-now kind of tips for how to nurture joy in yourself and in others.
The writing was very approachable and understandable, almost to the point of being simplistic. But there was no compromise on the truth in this book. If the above definition of joy speaks to you, maybe is something you want but have had a hard time experiencing (like me), then I highly recommend you read this!
I've been needing to read a book like this one. A very clear, very direct reminder that joy is my inheritance as a believer in Jesus, a child of God filled with the Holy Spirit. I've always known that there is a fundamental difference between happiness and joy, but I've never been able to put my finger on exactly what it is. I know that happiness is merely a temporary reaction to present circumstances. But I loved the definition of joy in this book - "the settled assurance that God is in control of all the details of my life, the quiet confidence that ultimately everything is going to be all right, and the determined choice to praise God in all things."
That's something I want in my life.
I enjoyed the variety of topics discussed, including the "dry wells" we turn to that fail to bring us joy, the value system of heaven that changes our mindset, and the fascinating Winnie-the-Pooh School of Personalities (of which, incidentally, I am an Eeyore...). One of my favorite chapters was about how we can know Jesus as a man of joy! There were also some very practical, I-can-put-this-book-down-and-do-this-right-now kind of tips for how to nurture joy in yourself and in others.
The writing was very approachable and understandable, almost to the point of being simplistic. But there was no compromise on the truth in this book. If the above definition of joy speaks to you, maybe is something you want but have had a hard time experiencing (like me), then I highly recommend you read this!
August 5, 2016
It took me a long time to finish this book, mostly because I really wanted to focus on what Kay Warren was saying and absorb as much as I could. I think "Choose Joy" is a fabulous book and I really enjoyed it. This is a book that I've highlighted and will repeatedly refer back to on my daily walk. It's a treasure filled with scripture, practical advice and examples from Kay's own life and struggles. Highly recommended.
May 2, 2021
I love the word "JOY" and this book was joy to read. The format of chapter, prayer and meditation questions or activities was delightful. I used it as a devotional and loved picking it up every day. It is great in explaining how to get more joy in your life. I think you will like it.
June 19, 2012
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
The very first page of “Choose Joy” caught my attention because the author and I seem to have a lot in common. First of all, like Kay Warren, I don’t always have it all together. And even though my name is Joy, the joy Kay is talking about doesn’t always come easily to me, and one reason is, I’ve struggled with depression as well for a long time. Therefore this book captured my interest and kept it until the last page, because I really wanted to see just what Kay Warren has to say about this ‘Joy’ she is talking about.
A few of the statements Kay made that jumped out at me are:
Joy is a choice.
The foundational truth that each of us needs to remember is that ‘God is the Only True Source of Joy.’
Joy is the gift of the Holy Spirit intended for all personalities at all times.
Because God’s will is good, we can embrace joy rather than fear. When we truly believe God’s will is good, we have no reason to fear.
The walls we build around us to keep sadness out also keeps out the joy.
And these are just a few things I wrote down while reading this book. As I read through “Choose Joy,” I was reminded that God’s desire for us is to have the full joy in our lives as we live for Him. Kay Warren gives us an outline in her book that is easy to read and follow, and will help us have joy in every area of our lives. It is not always easy, but it can happen if we truly trust the Lord. And that is what this book does for me, it shows me how I can truly trust God in all areas of my life, finding joy in Him.
I appreciate Kay Warren admitting to her readers that always finding Joy is difficult for her, because that made this book more real to me because she knows what she is talking about because of her experience. I tend to find a book more believable when the author talks about his or her own experiences, and that is true of “Choose Joy.” As I read the book, I could feel the love and encouragement Kay has for her readers.
I encourage all ladies to read this book, even if you think you don’t need it. And it wouldn’t hurt men at all to read it as well! And this would make a wonderful Bible Study for small groups and Sunday school classes as well as devotions. I highly recommend “Choose Joy” to anyone!
“Available April 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
I received this book from the publisher Revell to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55
August 7, 2012
Not my normal choice of books. Reading in preparation to host Kay Warren when she speaks at our church in the fall.
October 1, 2014
Excellent
April 1, 2012
CHOOSE JOY by Kay Warren
Joy (as defined by Warren): Joy is the settled assurance that God is in control of all the details of my life, the quiet confidence that ultimately everything is going to be all right, and the determined choice to praise God in all things (30).
She says that joy and sorrow run “inseparably throughout our days” down a “set of parallel train tracks” (27).
“God is the only true source of joy” (95).
The Laughing Christ—(see the two pics below—I love the image of Jesus laughing and smiling!) Jesus was a man of joy who actually was very funny, telling jokes within his parables! It’s our modern world that doesn’t “get” his jokes!
Joy is a CHOICE.
Joy is not the same as happiness. Happiness is all about a moment….an action….a feeling…Happiness comes as goes as quickly and as fleetingly as moments do. We can not find Joy in happiness. Joy is (see above)—in the good times AND the bad/hard/difficult/challenging/low/etc., etc., etc. times in life.
*The sweet irony of reading Kay Warren’s book is that God gave me a similar message over a year ago. It think 2009 was my “Year of Joy.” During that year, my planner was beautifully embossed with “The JOY of the Lord is my strength!” Of course, I didn’t buy that planner in 2008 for 2009 with the thought that 2009 would be the “Year of Joy” for me; I bought that particular planner in 2008 because it was a gorgeous purple color that I just HAD to have! Isn’t God funny how He works? Throughout the year of 2009, God worked a lot in my life regarding JOY. I have at least 2 post-its in my Bible with words from the Lord regarding JOY: “You can Have ‘Don’t Worry, Be Happy.’ I’ll take the JOY of the Lord is my Strength!” And, “Make a Decision that I’m not going to anyone or anything rob me of my JOY or keep me from seeing the JOY that is in my life in knowing Jesus as my Lord and Savior!”
I also did a Bible study on JOY put together by the Women of Faith.
I did my own personal Bible study on the word JOY (and all its forms), finding all the references in the Bible to the word JOY (in various translations) and marking each and every one of them in my various Bibles! I even bought myself a pink Bible (NKJV) wherein to mark all said references and in that Bible, as well as all my other Bibles, I marked all the references in PINK because the color of JOY is pink! My favorite verses and the ones I’ve claimed for my life are: “You love what is right and hate what is wrong. Therefore, God, [my] God, has anointed [me], pouring out the oil of joy on [me] more than anyone else” (Psalm 45:7 & Hebrews 1:9). JUMOY!
During that time, I also came up with a catch-phrase for myself: JUMOY! (Jump for Joy) It doesn’t work as an answer when someone asks me how I’m doing (I started saying “Peachy” like my Daddy because that just comes out better), but I do get to use it a lot!
During that time I also spent QUALITY time weeping/sobbing and pouring out my heart before the Lord—on my face. I remember feeling both drained and rejuvenated at the same time as I stood up off the floor of First Assembly of God in Hickory, NC. It was truly very healing. That was the night that started me on my Journey to Joy (which I’m still traveling, just in case you’re wondering).
Now for those of you who think I’m nothing more than a “Pollyanna” who always finds something to be Glad about, let me share some of the trials I’ve been through:
1. In December 1998, I had surgery to remove my left ovary and part of my fallopian tube because of a cyst. I was 6 months pregnant with my first son at the time.
2. On March 16, 1999, I went in for my regular doctor’s appointment (I had two weeks to go until my due date). There was no heartbeat. We did an ultrasound to be sure, but the only heartbeat we heard was mine. I had to go through labor and delivery; James Isaac was stillborn the following day, March 17, 1999. He’d been gone for almost a week, but I had no idea until that moment in the doctor’s office when we didn’t hear the heartbeat.
3. In November of that same year, just days before Thanksgiving, I miscarried my second baby, who I named Panya Ruth. (I wanted a girl so bad. I’m fairly confident she’s a girl because of a very real dream I had later the following year.)
4. *I feel odd throwing this one in here, but during all this time, I lost several jobs. I was let go from a Christian Bookstore! (I know! ME! From a Christian Book store! I still don’t know what happened there!) I was let go from a bank I worked at. (No real big loss there except for the fact that I really needed the job.) I was let go from Tri-City Christian School after two years of teaching all 4 high school English classes as well as both Spanish 1 and 2. (The Lord had been telling me it was time to go, but it was still a hard loss.)
5. In November of 2005, just days before Thanksgiving (this isn’t the first nor will it be the last), I had another miscarriage. I do believe another girl: Anna Rose. (This one happened on campus where I left a blood trail down the classroom and had to be taken off campus in an ambulance. VERY traumatic for me.)
6. On the Sunday before Thanksgiving in 2010, James raced me to the ER at Frye where I was suffering from an infection from Diverticulitus. I stayed in the hospital for a whole week while Dr. Cox attempted to control the infection with medication. When an attempt to drain the infection failed, I was rushed in to emergency surgery immediately afterwards where I was given a stoma and had to wear an ostomy bag for three months. I stayed in the hospital for another week after my surgery. Believe it or not, for me, the worst part of that whole experience were the hallucinations!
7. Three months later, I went in for my reversal surgery where Dr. Cox reconnected my large intestine so I no longer have to wear a bag as well as removed 8 inches of my colon. I stayed in the hospital for a week after that surgery. (Recovery for both of these was slow, embarrassing, and very embarrassing.)
8. In October of that same year, I started bleeding—AGAIN. I’d been having trouble with bleeding too much and too often since my first surgery, but this time was the last straw. Dr. Merta found I had a polyp that had to be removed. This one was a day surgery, but in many ways, it was more painful than any of the previous surgeries! I remember screaming in pain while in the hospital.
9. I’m putting this as a separate one because even though other factors affect this one, it stands alone because of its importance: Samuel is the only living child I will ever have.
These are just the major sorrows that stand out throughout the years that I have had to deal with. So when you see me with a huge smile on my face….or when you hear me laughing from deep within….or when you hear me say that I’m “Peachy,” I would like for you to know that it’s because I have asked the Lord to pour out His oil of JOY on me more than anyone else, and I believe—no, I KNOW—He has answered my prayer. It is ONLY in and through Him that have JOY in my life and in my heart.
Otherwise, if I wasn’t a quivering mess lying in my bed never coming out except to go to the bathroom and/or to eat junk food (right, that means not bathing), then I’d be 6-feet under because I’d have to end the pain I continue to fight each and very day.
But the bottom line is that I DO CHOOSE JOY—I do choose to live a life of JOY. That doesn’t mean that I’m successful every day or that I don’t have the “bad” feelings every once in a while, but I know, from the depths of my soul, that, truly, the JOY OF THE LORD IS MY STRENGTH (Nehemiah 8:10)!!!!! JUMOY!
Joy (as defined by Warren): Joy is the settled assurance that God is in control of all the details of my life, the quiet confidence that ultimately everything is going to be all right, and the determined choice to praise God in all things (30).
She says that joy and sorrow run “inseparably throughout our days” down a “set of parallel train tracks” (27).
“God is the only true source of joy” (95).
The Laughing Christ—(see the two pics below—I love the image of Jesus laughing and smiling!) Jesus was a man of joy who actually was very funny, telling jokes within his parables! It’s our modern world that doesn’t “get” his jokes!
Joy is a CHOICE.
Joy is not the same as happiness. Happiness is all about a moment….an action….a feeling…Happiness comes as goes as quickly and as fleetingly as moments do. We can not find Joy in happiness. Joy is (see above)—in the good times AND the bad/hard/difficult/challenging/low/etc., etc., etc. times in life.
*The sweet irony of reading Kay Warren’s book is that God gave me a similar message over a year ago. It think 2009 was my “Year of Joy.” During that year, my planner was beautifully embossed with “The JOY of the Lord is my strength!” Of course, I didn’t buy that planner in 2008 for 2009 with the thought that 2009 would be the “Year of Joy” for me; I bought that particular planner in 2008 because it was a gorgeous purple color that I just HAD to have! Isn’t God funny how He works? Throughout the year of 2009, God worked a lot in my life regarding JOY. I have at least 2 post-its in my Bible with words from the Lord regarding JOY: “You can Have ‘Don’t Worry, Be Happy.’ I’ll take the JOY of the Lord is my Strength!” And, “Make a Decision that I’m not going to anyone or anything rob me of my JOY or keep me from seeing the JOY that is in my life in knowing Jesus as my Lord and Savior!”
I also did a Bible study on JOY put together by the Women of Faith.
I did my own personal Bible study on the word JOY (and all its forms), finding all the references in the Bible to the word JOY (in various translations) and marking each and every one of them in my various Bibles! I even bought myself a pink Bible (NKJV) wherein to mark all said references and in that Bible, as well as all my other Bibles, I marked all the references in PINK because the color of JOY is pink! My favorite verses and the ones I’ve claimed for my life are: “You love what is right and hate what is wrong. Therefore, God, [my] God, has anointed [me], pouring out the oil of joy on [me] more than anyone else” (Psalm 45:7 & Hebrews 1:9). JUMOY!
During that time, I also came up with a catch-phrase for myself: JUMOY! (Jump for Joy) It doesn’t work as an answer when someone asks me how I’m doing (I started saying “Peachy” like my Daddy because that just comes out better), but I do get to use it a lot!
During that time I also spent QUALITY time weeping/sobbing and pouring out my heart before the Lord—on my face. I remember feeling both drained and rejuvenated at the same time as I stood up off the floor of First Assembly of God in Hickory, NC. It was truly very healing. That was the night that started me on my Journey to Joy (which I’m still traveling, just in case you’re wondering).
Now for those of you who think I’m nothing more than a “Pollyanna” who always finds something to be Glad about, let me share some of the trials I’ve been through:
1. In December 1998, I had surgery to remove my left ovary and part of my fallopian tube because of a cyst. I was 6 months pregnant with my first son at the time.
2. On March 16, 1999, I went in for my regular doctor’s appointment (I had two weeks to go until my due date). There was no heartbeat. We did an ultrasound to be sure, but the only heartbeat we heard was mine. I had to go through labor and delivery; James Isaac was stillborn the following day, March 17, 1999. He’d been gone for almost a week, but I had no idea until that moment in the doctor’s office when we didn’t hear the heartbeat.
3. In November of that same year, just days before Thanksgiving, I miscarried my second baby, who I named Panya Ruth. (I wanted a girl so bad. I’m fairly confident she’s a girl because of a very real dream I had later the following year.)
4. *I feel odd throwing this one in here, but during all this time, I lost several jobs. I was let go from a Christian Bookstore! (I know! ME! From a Christian Book store! I still don’t know what happened there!) I was let go from a bank I worked at. (No real big loss there except for the fact that I really needed the job.) I was let go from Tri-City Christian School after two years of teaching all 4 high school English classes as well as both Spanish 1 and 2. (The Lord had been telling me it was time to go, but it was still a hard loss.)
5. In November of 2005, just days before Thanksgiving (this isn’t the first nor will it be the last), I had another miscarriage. I do believe another girl: Anna Rose. (This one happened on campus where I left a blood trail down the classroom and had to be taken off campus in an ambulance. VERY traumatic for me.)
6. On the Sunday before Thanksgiving in 2010, James raced me to the ER at Frye where I was suffering from an infection from Diverticulitus. I stayed in the hospital for a whole week while Dr. Cox attempted to control the infection with medication. When an attempt to drain the infection failed, I was rushed in to emergency surgery immediately afterwards where I was given a stoma and had to wear an ostomy bag for three months. I stayed in the hospital for another week after my surgery. Believe it or not, for me, the worst part of that whole experience were the hallucinations!
7. Three months later, I went in for my reversal surgery where Dr. Cox reconnected my large intestine so I no longer have to wear a bag as well as removed 8 inches of my colon. I stayed in the hospital for a week after that surgery. (Recovery for both of these was slow, embarrassing, and very embarrassing.)
8. In October of that same year, I started bleeding—AGAIN. I’d been having trouble with bleeding too much and too often since my first surgery, but this time was the last straw. Dr. Merta found I had a polyp that had to be removed. This one was a day surgery, but in many ways, it was more painful than any of the previous surgeries! I remember screaming in pain while in the hospital.
9. I’m putting this as a separate one because even though other factors affect this one, it stands alone because of its importance: Samuel is the only living child I will ever have.
These are just the major sorrows that stand out throughout the years that I have had to deal with. So when you see me with a huge smile on my face….or when you hear me laughing from deep within….or when you hear me say that I’m “Peachy,” I would like for you to know that it’s because I have asked the Lord to pour out His oil of JOY on me more than anyone else, and I believe—no, I KNOW—He has answered my prayer. It is ONLY in and through Him that have JOY in my life and in my heart.
Otherwise, if I wasn’t a quivering mess lying in my bed never coming out except to go to the bathroom and/or to eat junk food (right, that means not bathing), then I’d be 6-feet under because I’d have to end the pain I continue to fight each and very day.
But the bottom line is that I DO CHOOSE JOY—I do choose to live a life of JOY. That doesn’t mean that I’m successful every day or that I don’t have the “bad” feelings every once in a while, but I know, from the depths of my soul, that, truly, the JOY OF THE LORD IS MY STRENGTH (Nehemiah 8:10)!!!!! JUMOY!
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July 20, 2022"In a phrase, joy is a choice."
I was sincerely surprised with this book. I went in with a chip on my shoulder, assuming that the wife of a famous mega-church leader would fill her book with cliches and well-intended platitudes.
Not so. Kay Warren has had a rough life, and in yet another reminder for me not to judge people too quickly, she offers help from her own struggles to people who wrestle with depression and the overwhelming fears and weight of this world.
I would rather hear from someone on this subject who has struggled with depression, than someone whose heart has always been at peace.
I learned from reading this book: Humor plays its role in the Gospels, and in our healing. "Laughing Jesus" was an illustration that featured in, of all places, a Playboy magazine. Jesus used humor often—consider the "plank in your own eye" instruction.
Kay has four personalities she likens all of us to, and she has them named after Winnie the Pooh characters. Besides the titular character, there're Rabbit, Tigger, and Eeyore personalities.
"Joy cannot grow in the presence of ingratitude."
And there were somber lessons from her life, as she wrote: When she was too busy to invest in the life of her neighbor who was spiritually dying in her marriage, and later committed suicide, Kay writes, "The time to start giving is now." I concur.
I was sincerely surprised with this book. I went in with a chip on my shoulder, assuming that the wife of a famous mega-church leader would fill her book with cliches and well-intended platitudes.
Not so. Kay Warren has had a rough life, and in yet another reminder for me not to judge people too quickly, she offers help from her own struggles to people who wrestle with depression and the overwhelming fears and weight of this world.
I would rather hear from someone on this subject who has struggled with depression, than someone whose heart has always been at peace.
I learned from reading this book: Humor plays its role in the Gospels, and in our healing. "Laughing Jesus" was an illustration that featured in, of all places, a Playboy magazine. Jesus used humor often—consider the "plank in your own eye" instruction.
Kay has four personalities she likens all of us to, and she has them named after Winnie the Pooh characters. Besides the titular character, there're Rabbit, Tigger, and Eeyore personalities.
"Joy cannot grow in the presence of ingratitude."
And there were somber lessons from her life, as she wrote: When she was too busy to invest in the life of her neighbor who was spiritually dying in her marriage, and later committed suicide, Kay writes, "The time to start giving is now." I concur.
September 17, 2025
Gosh, so simple but so powerful! I didn't even realize until I got somewhat into it that this is Kay Warren as in Rick Warren's wife.
She has as much wisdom as he does.
She's been through some stuff!!
She speaks with authority.
I'm amazed at how much psychology points back to biblical truth and HOW much choice we have in our own feelings.
We can't control everything all the time, but we do have more control in the power of choice, than we realize.
So many times in our lives, we must CHOOSE gratitude, choose joy, choose contentment.
I would re-read this next year.
Simple simple truths - easy to understand, the challenge rests in application.
She has as much wisdom as he does.
She's been through some stuff!!
She speaks with authority.
I'm amazed at how much psychology points back to biblical truth and HOW much choice we have in our own feelings.
We can't control everything all the time, but we do have more control in the power of choice, than we realize.
So many times in our lives, we must CHOOSE gratitude, choose joy, choose contentment.
I would re-read this next year.
Simple simple truths - easy to understand, the challenge rests in application.
September 17, 2025
This book was perfect timing for me. I want to me Kay and have a cup of tea with her!
June 15, 2012
Kay Warren in her new book, “Choose Joy” published by Revell suggests that we Choose Joy: Because Happiness Isn’t Enough.
From the inside flap: Everyone knows how to be joyful in the peaks of life.
I’ve graduated!
I’m engaged!
I’ve been hired!
I’m having a baby!
I’m cancer-free!
When all your fondest hopes and wildest dreams come true, and your heart nearly explodes with happiness, it’s easy to feel joyful.
But what about the valleys? When nothing seems to go your way? When everything is falling apart? When God is silent, and you feel all alone?
Where does joy fit into those moments?
In Choose Joy, acclaimed author and Christian leader Kay Warren shares the path to experiencing soul-satisfying joy no matter what you’re going through. Joy is deeper than happiness, lasts longer than excitement, and is more satisfying than pleasure and thrills. Joy is richer. Fuller. And it’s far more accessible than you’ve thought.
Joy comes from God . . . and it can be yours! Today.
What do we do when the car is totaled? How about if a child is murdered or sent to prison? How do we handle when our daughter announces she is pregnant or we have inoperable cancer? These are the crises in our lives that have the ability to knock us down if we let them. However there is another choice we can make. Kay Warren suggests we choose joy. In four parts; Part One: Joy is my inheritance, Part Two: Joy is a conviction of my mind, Part Three: Joy is a condition of my heart, Part Four: Joy is a choice of my behavior, Ms. Warren gives us the tools we need to have the Joy of the Lord built-in to us so that the crises not only not overwhelm us but His Joy gives us strength. “Choose Joy” is a book that we will read put on a shelf then come back to it many times to read again. We need reminding what joy is and how it is available to us. This book is for everyone and should be considered as a gift for birthdays and such.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours a day non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
“Available June 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
From the inside flap: Everyone knows how to be joyful in the peaks of life.
I’ve graduated!
I’m engaged!
I’ve been hired!
I’m having a baby!
I’m cancer-free!
When all your fondest hopes and wildest dreams come true, and your heart nearly explodes with happiness, it’s easy to feel joyful.
But what about the valleys? When nothing seems to go your way? When everything is falling apart? When God is silent, and you feel all alone?
Where does joy fit into those moments?
In Choose Joy, acclaimed author and Christian leader Kay Warren shares the path to experiencing soul-satisfying joy no matter what you’re going through. Joy is deeper than happiness, lasts longer than excitement, and is more satisfying than pleasure and thrills. Joy is richer. Fuller. And it’s far more accessible than you’ve thought.
Joy comes from God . . . and it can be yours! Today.
What do we do when the car is totaled? How about if a child is murdered or sent to prison? How do we handle when our daughter announces she is pregnant or we have inoperable cancer? These are the crises in our lives that have the ability to knock us down if we let them. However there is another choice we can make. Kay Warren suggests we choose joy. In four parts; Part One: Joy is my inheritance, Part Two: Joy is a conviction of my mind, Part Three: Joy is a condition of my heart, Part Four: Joy is a choice of my behavior, Ms. Warren gives us the tools we need to have the Joy of the Lord built-in to us so that the crises not only not overwhelm us but His Joy gives us strength. “Choose Joy” is a book that we will read put on a shelf then come back to it many times to read again. We need reminding what joy is and how it is available to us. This book is for everyone and should be considered as a gift for birthdays and such.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours a day non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
“Available June 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
March 29, 2012
The author/narrator's voice was clear and concise, with just the right inflection where it was needed. I found myself getting so emotionally involved with Mrs. Warren's story, especially when she spoke of the difficulties she and her family have faced, that it brought tears to my eyes more then once. To know that she has suffered, as I and many others have suffered, and are still suffering today, and to be able to see and feel the joy that only God can offer, is very encouraging.
I would recommend this audiobook to any woman that has struggled with find and holding onto joy, and even if you have never struggled in this area, I would encourage you to listen to it also. Take her teachings to heart. Learn how to seek, find and choose joy now, before these troubles start. As Jesus says in John 16:33 (emphasis mine):
If you listen now, before the trouble comes, you may just be better prepared to find and choose the joy that God offers.
The author/narrator offers free 30 day devotional covering the concepts taught in Choose Joy. Visit her site for more information.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free throughChristian Audio. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
I would recommend this audiobook to any woman that has struggled with find and holding onto joy, and even if you have never struggled in this area, I would encourage you to listen to it also. Take her teachings to heart. Learn how to seek, find and choose joy now, before these troubles start. As Jesus says in John 16:33 (emphasis mine):
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world"
If you listen now, before the trouble comes, you may just be better prepared to find and choose the joy that God offers.
The author/narrator offers free 30 day devotional covering the concepts taught in Choose Joy. Visit her site for more information.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free throughChristian Audio. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
June 15, 2017
This book took me quite a while to get through due to the fact I found the need to 'chew' on each chapter for a bit after reading. Very encouraging book to me. Convicting in all the right ways. I would strongly suggest this book to anyone looking for a more joy-filled life.
June 21, 2017
An honest treatment of attitudes that foster joy and attitudes that hinder it. We have a choice as to where we live, and that choice has nothing to do with circumstances. It has to do with whom we trust most.
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November 3, 2020During dark days of discouragement, we need a spiritual vaccine for despair. I believe Kay Warren has created one with her masterful book "Choose Joy." I can hardly describe the light and encouragement this book provided me and highly recommend it to you.
March 22, 2013
Better than I expected, really. The author has a gift for genuine insight with cogent illustrations. Her warmth particularly came across in as she read the audio version of her book.
August 7, 2017
I have read numerous books for bible study through the years. My friends and I continuously refer back to Choosing Joy and remember what a positive impact this book and Kay had on all of us.
October 3, 2017
Beautifully written. Makes you look around and see joy everyday.
February 24, 2018
Wonderful book on choosing to live in Joy no matter the circumstances. So on time.
May 5, 2018
Amazing!
June 30, 2023
I'll start with the things I'd change first, just to get it out of the way so I can focus on the positives of this book (there are many) later on in this review. I felt like this book, as well as "Contentment" by Tracy Wilde-Pace, which I reviewed recently, had similarities, particularly in the writing structure, which I believe is the weakest part of both books. It seems surface level, and it boxes the audience into a singular gender which I disliked. Though I will say, Warren did that less than Pace did.
The structure was a bit confusing, I didn't know where we were going a few times, but it was ok at some parts.
It seemed surface-level for someone who had gone through a lot of deep sorrow and strife in her life, which caught me off guard because I thought Warren would talk about her trials more thoroughly than she did, but instead she mentioned them almost on the side like "oh yeah, this happened". Instead, she would talk about everyday struggles like being irritated and discontent over little things, which I think is interesting. I think it's good that she touched on the simple things and why we should be content in those circumstances, but I wished she had applied it more for the deeper, more sorrowful trials in life so it didn't seem surface-level.
I thought this book had excellent principles for Joy. Her definition of joy could be altered to be the path to Joy. Her principles to obtain Joy were very logical and Biblically sound, but I disagree that Joy at its core is how you obtain it. How you obtain joy is through choice. The choice to see good and be content in every situation, the choice to trust God, to hope in the glory before us, the choice to love God and be in an intimate relationship with him. So, ultimately, I was convinced that to obtain joy, it needs to be a choice.
There were excellent, applicable ways to obtain Joy in this book. Warren talked about the importance of gratitude, which I believe strongly in. Gratitude produces contentment, which is crucial for Joy. I loved her idea of picking up an item (rock, stick leaf. etc.)on a walk and putting it up in your house as a reminder to be thankful for the things God has given you.
I've already blabbered on for way too long, but in summary, I thought this book had good principles but didn't go as deep as I wanted it to go in the conversation of Joy. But still worthy of 4 stars.
The structure was a bit confusing, I didn't know where we were going a few times, but it was ok at some parts.
It seemed surface-level for someone who had gone through a lot of deep sorrow and strife in her life, which caught me off guard because I thought Warren would talk about her trials more thoroughly than she did, but instead she mentioned them almost on the side like "oh yeah, this happened". Instead, she would talk about everyday struggles like being irritated and discontent over little things, which I think is interesting. I think it's good that she touched on the simple things and why we should be content in those circumstances, but I wished she had applied it more for the deeper, more sorrowful trials in life so it didn't seem surface-level.
I thought this book had excellent principles for Joy. Her definition of joy could be altered to be the path to Joy. Her principles to obtain Joy were very logical and Biblically sound, but I disagree that Joy at its core is how you obtain it. How you obtain joy is through choice. The choice to see good and be content in every situation, the choice to trust God, to hope in the glory before us, the choice to love God and be in an intimate relationship with him. So, ultimately, I was convinced that to obtain joy, it needs to be a choice.
There were excellent, applicable ways to obtain Joy in this book. Warren talked about the importance of gratitude, which I believe strongly in. Gratitude produces contentment, which is crucial for Joy. I loved her idea of picking up an item (rock, stick leaf. etc.)on a walk and putting it up in your house as a reminder to be thankful for the things God has given you.
I've already blabbered on for way too long, but in summary, I thought this book had good principles but didn't go as deep as I wanted it to go in the conversation of Joy. But still worthy of 4 stars.
December 29, 2019
This book is written by Kay Warren who is the wife of Pastor and Author, Rick Warren. It's written for woman, however, I listened to it anyway and found it full of helpful and insightful advice and tips. The author also narrates the book, which often isn't a good idea, but she does it very well. I think I can recommend this not only for women, but also for men who will find getting things from a female perspective can be helpful. She stresses that Joy is a more lasting thing than happiness, and also something God tells us all that we should have, while God never instructs us to be happy, he does tell us we should be joyful (literally, full of joy).She never mentions the trite trope that joy means Jesus first, Others second and Yourself last, which is a huge thing in favor of this book since that trope is not only not biblical, it's actually anti-biblical. God commands us to love Him, but he also commands us to love others as we do ourselves. There is no scriptural hierarchy or prioritization for love, nor any scripture where doing this promises joy.. She speaks about the struggle for joy in the midst of tragedy, sorrows and physical problems. She's very real.
January 11, 2024
I was given this book and told they thought I'd like it. Well, I'm ashamed to say I put it on my shelf and didn't think just about it after that. This past month, my goal had been to choose joy more and to be more thankful. So when I went to my shelf for my goal to read more of my own books and I saw it, I decided to scan it. When I scanned the first chapter, God nudged me and said, "This is the next one you should read." I wish I hadn't waited so long to read it. The cover made sound very platitude, and I am not a fan of her using The Message bible for all her verses (the version irritates me)....but there was solid reminders in there and it was just what I needed. She did a good job of not just spouting platitudes. She gave practical, biblical steps that work for finding joy (not happiness) in one's circumstances (aka focusing on God instead of your circumstances).
The chapters were short and easy to read. They had a small doable challenge at the end of each of them.
I will keep it on my shelf. I would reread it. And I highly recommend it and even give some as gifts. So it is 5 stars for me.
The chapters were short and easy to read. They had a small doable challenge at the end of each of them.
I will keep it on my shelf. I would reread it. And I highly recommend it and even give some as gifts. So it is 5 stars for me.
May 5, 2018
Overall, a good book with several helpful nuggets that are worth meditating on. I probably would have given it a higher rating except for two things:
1) I have no idea why this book was written “for women” as opposed to a general audience. Except for the parts of the book where the author seemed to go out of her way to refer to her readers in gender specific ways (which were relatively often and in my experience, kind of distracting), nothing about this book was specifically feminine. Men need instruction on this topic just as much as women. I found that kind of annoying.
2) While this is not the fault of the author, I happened to read this book after I had already read “Choosing Gratitude” by Nancy Leigh DeMoss. They are similar enough in main themes, that I didn’t find much here to substantially alter my worldview, given what I had already processed and thought about from DeMoss’s book. If you’ve already read “Choosing Gratitude” - “Choose Joy” may feel a bit redundant to you.
1) I have no idea why this book was written “for women” as opposed to a general audience. Except for the parts of the book where the author seemed to go out of her way to refer to her readers in gender specific ways (which were relatively often and in my experience, kind of distracting), nothing about this book was specifically feminine. Men need instruction on this topic just as much as women. I found that kind of annoying.
2) While this is not the fault of the author, I happened to read this book after I had already read “Choosing Gratitude” by Nancy Leigh DeMoss. They are similar enough in main themes, that I didn’t find much here to substantially alter my worldview, given what I had already processed and thought about from DeMoss’s book. If you’ve already read “Choosing Gratitude” - “Choose Joy” may feel a bit redundant to you.
June 2, 2020
This book was amazing! It was like Kay Warren could see my thoughts. I would highly recommend this book to any perfectionists out there, or anyone who is struggling to find joy in the world. Kay defines joy as "the settled assurance that God is in control of all the details of my life, the quiet confidence that ultimately everything is going to be all right, and the determined choice to praise God in all things" (p.31). She encourages the reader to think of life like parallel train tracks: joy and sorrow always present (p.27). She says that when we experience pain, there is still love and beauty to be found in the world. This book is full of deep truths. I loved Kay's analogies, her personal anecdotes and her deep insights about joy. This is definitely a book I want to purchase for my bookshelf and read again in the coming days.
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