The Bible does not promise us happiness. It does promise joy. Yes, there is a difference. Happiness is a feeling. Joy is a state of being. The Greek word used in the New Testament for joy is chara and "it is used to describe a deep abiding sense of joy and gladness that is rooted in spiritual realities rather than external circumstances. It is often associated with the presence of the Holy Spirit and the believer’s relationship with God. It is charact...