What if joy isn't something you have to search for but something you already possess?

In Activating Joy, licensed clinical psychologist Kevin Chapman brings together biblical truth and science-backed psychology to help Christian readers learn how to anticipate, activate, and acclimate to joy. Drawing on psychological insights, best practices from cognitive behavioral therapy, and the timeless truths of Scripture, Chapman offers a practical, grace-filled guide for shifting your attention to the goodness of God. Rather than forcing positive thoughts or ignoring hard realities, you'll learn the skill of recognizing and returning to joy as a fruit of the Spirit who lives within you.

What you'll find in Activating Joy:

• How to build and strengthen your capacity to experience positive emotions and grow in your ability to maintain a "joy cycle"
• How to understand your God-given psychological reward system to help you grow in your mental and emotional health and cultivate positive emotionality
• How to identify your own personal joy triggers; meditate on joyful experiences; develop the biblical skill of rejoicing always; and cultivate gratitude, hope, and love
• Workbook-style exercises, prayer prompts, Scripture engagement, and reflection and discussion questions so you can immediately put into practice what you're learning

God's presence is everywhere and God's joy is eternal. In Scripture he calls you to "rejoice always" (1 Thessalonians 5:16) and teaches that "The joy of the LORD is your strength" (Nehemiah 8:10). No matter what your circumstances look like right now, you have the God-given capacity to activate joy in your life. This book will show you how.

Also available: Read Chapman's book Mastering Our Emotions to learn more about how to navigate negative emotions, understand the brain's defensive system, and grow skills to avoid downward emotional spirals.