This post will be most complete if you add your own favorites ~ Inspiring quotes or favorite scriptures that esteem joy.  Please share your voice in comments.

I have no greater joy than to hear that my children
are walking in the truth. ~ 3 John 1:4

Hope fills the afflicted soul with such inward joy and consolation, that it can laugh while tears are in the eye, sigh and sing all in a breath; it is called “The rejoicing of hope.”
~ William Gurnall

I am greatly encouraged; in all our troubles
my joy knows no bounds. ~ 2 Corinthians 7:4b

When large numbers of people share their joy in common,
the happiness of each is greater because each adds fuel
to the other’s flame. ~ Augustine

You have shown me the way of life, and you will fill me
with the joy of your presence. ~ Acts 2:28

You will find a joy in overcoming obstacles. ~ Helen Keller

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4

But my joy has truly come from Him finding His joy in me rather than me finding my joy in what I desire. It doesn’t mean I don’t long for different, it just means I find peace in fulfilling rather than understanding.  ~ Sara Frankl, @gitzengirl

Photo credits:  Photo around the laptop & of Sara with Elias, lifted from Jessica’s blog; photo of (in)courage team jumping on the beach, courtesy of Dawn Camp from our Flickr pool.