Choose Joy: Because Happiness Isn't Enough

by Kay Warren

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.

Genres: Nonfiction

272 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2012

About the author

KAY WARREN cofounded Saddleback Church with her husband Rick Warren in Lake Forest, California. She is a passionate Bible teacher and respected advocate for those infected and affected by HIV and AIDS, as well as orphaned and vulnerable children. She founded Saddleback’s HIV/AIDS Initiative. Kay is the author of Choose Joy: Because Happiness Isn’t Enough, Say Yes to God and coauthor of Foundations, the popular systematic theology course used by churches worldwide. She has three children and five grandchildren.

Reviews

[Tiffanie Page · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great small group study

This book was a great small group study. It introduced several great topics of discussion. Very well organized and easy to read

[Carolyn Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Abiding joy ("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 alright and the determined choice to praise God in all things "), rather than fleeting pleasure, is something we all want, right? It really is available. All that is involved is making the choice to have joy in your life. Sounds simple, doesn't it? And reading this warm, honest and lovingly written book does make it sound simple - except that Kay knows a thing or two about pain and heartache and loss and fear. She knows that we each have to make the choice for joy in spite of unbelievable circumstances, in the middle of devastating situations and even if our worst nightmares come true, and she urges us to learn to experience joy on a daily basis by fully and completely living in each moment with God.

[Rosemary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend this book. I checked it out from the library on Kindle but am thinking about buying a book copy so that I can hold it in my hand and mark the pages.

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. It was better than I expected in that it dives deep into why we don’t experience joy and how we can obtain it with the proper focus on God. Many times I read books on joy and happiness and feel it’s just superficial but what was described here made me think the author truly knows the pain and disappointments of life and that the joy we are supposed to have as Christians is not a burden to be forced but a gift God gives. The steps, definition for joy, and relatable stories has left me feeling changed and confident that this is possible instead of confused or having the same questions that I started with. I would recommend this book for anyone who like me knows we are called to have joy as a fruit of the spirit but struggling with the how.

[Rev. Karyl J. Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Important distinction between lasting joy and momentary happiness

This book is addressed primarily to women but I think men could benefit from reading and considering it too. I like the concept of the parallel train tracks that run through our lives and I value her definition of joy, which she repeats at times throughout the book. Reading this has reignited my own sparks of joy.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book. So much wisdom contained within these pages. I have read it several times over the past several years and I will probably read it again in the future. I keep buying more copies to gift to friends. If you feel that you do not have joy in your life, or if you do not have a clear idea of what joy is, I highly recommend this book.God bless Kay Warren for writing this special book.

[Rachel Catley · Rating 1 out of 5]

Terrrible book although the sentiment might be fine. Picking and choosing versions of the bible to fit your narrative rather than focusing on the actual meaning of passages is reckless. Badly researched. Would not recommend.

[Denise Hiemstra]

It was ok...

[Elizabeth Knaus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Joy is in Jesus and Kay reminds us.

[michelleharden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Expresses truth of scripture

Easy read and reminder of God’s truth and faithfulness
She is a humble writer and expresses her humanity and vulnerability

[Vicki]

overall this was a good subject, but the definition of joy seemed to morph throughout the book.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kay Warren shares personal experiences, Scripture and research into how to actively choose joy no matter your current circumstances. She gives practical tips for readers to immediately begin on this journey starting with a change of perspective. There's no fluff in this book!

[Jana · Rating 2 out of 5]

Everything within this book is important and great for the mind to ponder. I found it a bit too on the religious side for me taste. i am certain that others would relish on the biblical references however!

[Read On · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great path to self examination.

This book takes you through how your life may not be perfect, but how you can purposely find joy in all circumstances. Finding the bless in the mess is a powerful message.