The lionhearted thoughts of a girl named Lainey.

In a world that thrives on anxiety, cynicism, and despair, joy is not just rare—it’s radical. True joy, the kind that doesn’t depend on circumstances or distractions, is a rebellious act. And it’s only found in one place: anchored in Jesus Christ.

👑 Who Is the Greatest?

In Matthew 18, the disciples ask Jesus a question that echoes through every generation: “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Jesus doesn’t point to a warrior, a scholar, or a religious elite. Instead, He calls over a child.

“Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” — Matthew 18:3

This wasn’t just a sweet metaphor. It was a spiritual mic drop. Jesus was saying that greatness in His kingdom looks like childlikeness—humble, trusting, joyful.

🧒 The Joy of Children

Children don’t wake up worrying about inflation, war, or their social media following. They wake up ready to play. Why? Because they know someone is taking care of them. Their parents are handling the bills, the meals, the safety. Their needs are met, so their hearts are free.

That’s the posture Jesus invites us into. When we trust our heavenly Father to meet our needs, we’re free to live in joy. Not the fleeting kind that comes from entertainment or success—but the deep, soul-rooted joy that comes from knowing we are loved, protected, and provided for.

🔥 Joy in Jesus Is Rebellion

In today’s culture, joy is often seen as naïve. We’re told to be serious, skeptical, and self-reliant. But Jesus flips that script. To live with joy in Him is to defy the darkness. It’s to say:

• “I will not be ruled by fear.”
• “I will not let despair define me.”
• “I will trust my Father, even when the world shakes.”

Joy in Jesus is not ignorance—it’s resistance. It’s choosing light when everything around you screams darkness. It’s choosing hope when headlines say otherwise. It’s choosing to laugh, dance, and rest in the arms of a Savior who holds the future.

The Invitation

Jesus isn’t asking us to pretend life is easy. He’s inviting us to remember who’s in charge. Like children, we’re called to live in joyful dependence—not because we’re blind to trouble, but because we know who’s carrying us through it.

So today, rebel. Choose joy. Be childlike. And let the world wonder how you’re still smiling.