Written By Pastor James

Welcome back for another Friday with “Growing Greatness”! I’m Pastor James, and I’m honored to walk with Bartlett and Memphis families as we raise up #BeAmazing kids. Last time, we dove deep into kindness. Today, let’s open our hearts to a gift from God’s Spirit that can change everything: Joy.

Why Joy Matters

Joy, as a fruit of the Spirit, isn’t just about laughter or fun moments—it’s a deep-seated gladness that comes from knowing God loves us and is always with us, no matter what. Life has ups and downs, but joy anchors us, even on stormy days. The Bible reminds us:
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4)

God’s joy is much deeper than a passing feeling. It bubbles up from trusting God’s promises, knowing He is good, and that He’s working for our good—even when things are tough. Joy gives us strength to face challenges, hope to keep going, and a light to share with others in our schools, neighborhoods, and families.

How to Grow Joy at Every Age

For Young Children (Ages 3–7)

• Sing and Dance: Worship together with simple songs about God’s love and joy. Let kids dance, clap, and celebrate!
• Thankfulness Jars: Each night, help your child name one thing that made them smile—add it to a “joy jar” to revisit when times feel hard.
• Smile Chain: Challenge your child to see how many people they can make smile in one day with their own joyfulness.

For Elementary Kids (Ages 8–12)

• Joy Journals: Start a family habit of writing or drawing what brings each person joy and how God is present in those moments.
• Explore Bible Stories: Read about Paul and Silas singing in prison (Acts 16)—ask how they could have joy even when things went wrong.
• Encourage Others: Encourage your child to write cheerful notes for teachers, classmates, or neighbors, spreading God’s joy.

For Teens (Ages 13+)

• Perspective Challenges: Talk together about disappointments and ask, “What hope or good might God be growing in this?”
• Serve with Joy: Volunteer as a family at a local ministry or event—joy grows as we lift up others.
• Joy Playlists: Make a playlist of encouraging worship songs that remind your teen of God’s promises during tough times.

How Does Your Family Share Joy?

Every family expresses joy in their own way—through music, celebrations, shared meals, or even quietly supporting one another through trials. The secret of joy isn’t pretending life is perfect, but trusting God—no matter what—and finding reasons to celebrate His goodness every day.

Joy That Lights Up Memphis

Can you picture Memphis and Bartlett full of joyful families? When we let God’s Spirit grow joy in our hearts, we become beacons of hope and encouragement in every corner of our city. Share your family’s stories and photos showing joy in action! Together, let’s let joy overflow and inspire others.

Let’s keep growing greatness. One joyful heart, one cheerful family, one amazing city at a time.

Look for next week’s article on Peace—coming Friday!
Blessings,
Pastor James