Choosing Joy Even In Beautiful Chaos

It’s one of those words that shows up all over Scripture — and if we’re honest, sometimes it feels easier to read about than to live out. Yet over and over, God reminds us that joy isn’t based on how easy or smooth life feels; it’s rooted in who He is.

“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10)

"You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy." (Psalm 16:11)

“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4)

Since arriving here at Pathway, our family has been soaking in that joy in fresh and surprising ways. It has been a blessing beyond words to be here — to serve alongside people who truly love Jesus, love the Church, and fill even the busiest days with laughter and encouragement.

From the first day we arrived, we felt the warm welcome, and every week since has been a reminder that when God plants you in the right place, your heart knows it. Just yesterday, between services, I was telling someone how clearly we saw God’s fingerprints all over the sale of our house — little details we could never have orchestrated ourselves. They smiled and reminded me that this was just yet another reassurance that we all made the right decision. And they were right. There’s no doubt in my mind — Pathway is exactly where God has planted our family. There’s something special here, and we’re deeply grateful to be part of it.

Speaking of family, nothing reminds me of the crazy, beautiful rollercoaster of joy more than life at home right now. We are deep in the “two kids in diapers” season — which, if you know, you know. It’s a seesaw between belly laughs and “how is there another blowout?” Between a toddler’s spontaneous “I love you!” and the inevitable meltdown because we gave her the wrong cup. There are moments where joy bubbles up so naturally you can’t contain it… and moments where you have to choose joy — intentionally, prayerfully, maybe while stepping on a stray toy in the hallway.

It’s the real-life version of what Jesus told us in John 16:22: “So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.” The truth is, the more chaotic and imperfect life feels, the more opportunities we have to anchor our hearts in joy that isn’t based on circumstances but on Christ alone.

Toddler life has a way of stretching you — emotionally, spiritually, physically (have you ever tried to carry a toddler, a diaper bag, a sippy cup, and your own sanity at the same time?). And yet, there’s this sweet, unexpected beauty in the stretch. We’re watching our kids discover the world — every emotion, every new word, and even discovering joy themselves. We’re learning to slow down and see things the way they do: full of wonder, full of life. And in those little glimpses, God reminds us: This is joy, too.

James 1:2-4 says it like this: “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.”

It’s not about pretending the hard parts aren’t hard. It’s about seeing God’s faithfulness in the middle of them. It’s about trusting that even the sleepless nights, the tantrum days, and the “what is that smell?” moments are part of the story He’s writing in us. And He’s writing a story full of pure joy.

So today, whether you’re in a season of diapers and chaos, or decisions and unknowns, or simply the day-to-day grind — don’t lose heart. Joy is not just a feeling you stumble into when everything is perfect. It’s a fruit of walking with Jesus. It’s a promise. It’s a gift. And sometimes it is an intentional choice to choose Joy in your circumstance.

We are so thankful — for Pathway, for this community, for the laughter, for the crazy toddler moments, and for a God who doesn’t just give us joy — He is our joy. Here’s to finding joy… even with two in diapers.