Marked by Joy: Discovering the Joy that Defined the First Believers

by Jared Mitzelfelt

Do you long for a life filled with joy? You're not alone-joy is a desire shared by everyone. As followers of Jesus, we are called to be people of joy, even in the midst of trials and suffering. When we look at the early church in the New Testament, we see a community marked by overflowing joy, despite facing intense persecution and societal pressures. They were a people marked by joy.



But what about today? Does joy still mark Christians in the twenty-first century? Too often, we find ourselves weighed down by anxiety, depression, anger, and discontentment-far from the joy that should define us. What has happened to the joy that once set believers apart?



What about you? Does joy mark your life, or have other struggles taken its place?



In this book, we'll dive into Scripture to uncover the root of our joy deficit and seek practical ways to restore joy to our lives, even during challenging times. My prayer is that, after reading this, you will be equipped to cultivate lasting joy and live the joy-filled life God has always intended for you.

244 pages, Paperback

Published April 15, 2025

About the author

Jared Mitzelfelt was born in South Bend, Indiana, and raised in Plainfield, Illinois. He now resides in Georgetown, Texas, with his amazing wife, Samantha, and their two lively children, Ellie and Ethan.

Jared holds a Bachelor of Science in Sports Ministry from Grace College and Seminary (2016) and earned both a Master of Divinity and a Master of Theological Studies from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (2022). He currently serves as the Young Adults Pastor at Central Baptist Church in Round Rock, Texas, where he focuses on fostering community and spiritual formation among young adults.

Passionate about teaching and communicating God's Word, Jared is dedicated to equipping the church to live vibrant, Christ-centered lives. When he's not serving in ministry, Jared enjoys cheering on his daughter at her sports events and savoring craft coffee. Whether at home with his family, engaging with friends, or serving his church community, Jared strives to live out his faith joyfully and with purpose.

Reviews

[Desiree · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful book written to elevate our walk with Jesus. Even if you aren't interested in joy specifically as a subject, this book would be excellent for Christians seeking a "How to follow Jesus" guide for living. It covers all the bases.

[Mallory Garrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorites from this year. Jared gives so many nuggets of wisdom and passes along helpful tools for abiding in Jesus and coming to know our joy. Highly recommended.