Do you know someone who is always ‘gloom and doom’ and just a drag to be around because they know how to ruin a good mood? If not, hopefully, that person is not you. These types of people can be known as “joy robbers.” Unfortunately, almost nothing will likely make them happy. Even devout Christians can be joy robbers. 

Comparison can also be the thief of your joy. Social media has benefits, but it also can be harmful. People, especially women, see these pretty Instagram posts of perfect houses and families and believe the people behind those pictures have a perfect life and have it all together. Now, I can’t speak for all of them, but I can bet that is far from the truth. We all like to put on a good face that makes us seem put together to others, but behind closed doors (or pictures) could be chaos. 

As a new mom, it can be easy to be sucked into a comparison scheme. Everyone, even if well intentioned, has advice. People will tell you what they did with their kids or say “you’re not doing that?” Or someone may tell you their child hit a developmental milestone that your own child is still working on. Social media also has a whole “mommy culture,” and while it can be helpful, if you’re not careful, you will fall into comparing your life to theirs. 

How do we defend ourselves from joy robbin’?

• When you feel your joy being depleted, no matter the cause, remember your joy comes from the Lord. Happy is an emotion and changes just as quickly as a traffic pattern, but joy, true joy, is from the Lord. 

“The joy of the Lord is my strength.”

Nehemiah 8:10

• Let the comfort of God bring you joy and squash your fears and worries.

“When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.”

Psalm 94:19

• Keep your thoughts on things above.

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things.” 

Philippians 4:8

• My husband and I like to sing the lyrics of the children’s song, “I’ve got that joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart!” in the morning while we get ready. It first started as something silly, and still has a silliness to it. But now, I let the words be a balm on my heart daily.

Do not let your joy be robbed from you. Beginning in this moment, pray the Lord will give you the strength to choose joy over fear, anxiety, worry, and comparison. I am praying with you.