Choose Joy: Because Happiness Isn’t Enough (Book Review)

Background: Choose Joy

Choose Joy is a nonfiction book is written by Kay Warren – wife to Pastor Rick Warren (think Purpose Driven Life) of Saddleback Church. The subtitle, Because Happiness Isn’t Enough, really sums up the core of this book. Our joy is different than circumstantial or situational happiness.

When great things happen – we graduate or get married – we are rightfully happy. Yet that’s not long-lasting. Joy that comes from Jesus IS the lasting kind.

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The book is centered on four premises:

1. Joy is our inheritance
2. Joy is a conviction of our mind
3. Joy is a condition of our heart
4. Joy is a choice of our behavior

Each premise has several chapters devoted to focusing on that element of joy. At the end of each chapter is a prayer relative to the chapter topic and some reflection/application questions for further study and development.

“Our faith-life should provide a stark contrast to the life of unbelievers, so much that it would be like looking at a brilliant star against the inky blackness of a dark night sky – you can’t help but notice the difference.” Kay Warren

My favorite guiding advice in this book is to “control the controllables, leave the uncontrollables to God.” We can rest in our joy when we know God is in control. We do what we can, but God is ultimately the one who has control.

What I like about the book

I love Kay’s stories. She brings her topic to life with her own stories. And those stories convince me that she understands the stressors of life that make it easy to neglect fostering joy. She understands the valleys of everyday life.

I also appreciate the reflection and application questions. If one is not likely to make connections from the reading alone, these questions prompt us to really put into practice what she says in our effort to choose joy. For that reason, taking your time reading this book is advisable.

What I didn’t like about the book

I don’t always love “prepackaged” prayers but I thoroughly enjoy the prayer process. I understand not everyone likes to create spontaneous prayer, though, so this could be a nice draw for some.

Honestly, that’s about it. I enjoyed her writing style and the format of the book.

Would I recommend Choose Joy?

Wholeheartedly! You should DEFINITELY read this book. It deals with an issue many of us need – more joy in our lives – true, lasting joy. I think you’ll appreciate her examples and points that are easy to apply to your own life.

Want to track your joy progress? This journal is designed for just that. Enjoy tracing your joy journey for years to come.

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I pray you find joy in this book. Please let me know in the comments if you read it and tell us what you think!

Like nonfiction? Have teens? This book is for you!

🌸 Andrea

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