There is a place where we can find infinite joy. It is not necessarily as we preach to thousands in large coliseums. Nor is it found in leading large churches or Christian ministries. It certainly is not automatic when we achieve places of prominence or business success. Rather, the place where we find inexpressible joy is when we abide in the shadow of the divine. When we are dwelling as closely to God as we can, that is when we experience irrepressible joy.
While the joy itself originates from God; the decision to abide in Him is a choice we make ourselves. At any moment we can choose to depart from Him or to follow at a distance. We can decide that we do not have the time or ability to walk closely with God. But the joy-filled Christian life comes from living within the shadow of God.
One of the signs that we are no longer walking as closely with Christ as we ought is that our rejoicing in Him subsides. Instead, we find ourselves complaining or worrying or being critical, rather than rejoicing in God’s goodness. Listen to what you have been saying, recently. Have you been rejoicing in God’s favor? If not, you might need to return to the shadows.