Authentic Joy

By Joanne Moody

Ephesians 2:22 is a profound passage that speaks to the transformative work of God in our lives: “God is transforming each one of you into the Holy of Holies, His dwelling place through the power of the Holy Spirit living in you.” This is a powerful reminder that we are not only redeemed but are also becoming the very dwelling place of God with authentic joy. Let’s explore the idea of being “settled” in this truth.

When I first considered the word “settled,” my mind went immediately to complacency—a state where there’s no longer any movement, growth, or challenge. However, as I spent time in prayer and reflection, the Lord stirred my heart to view it differently. To be settled in Christ is not about stagnation but about becoming deeply rooted and firmly established in Him. It’s about setting our hearts on things above and embracing the mind of Christ in every aspect of our lives.

Redefining ‘Settled’: Firmly Established in Christ

To be settled, in a biblical sense, goes beyond a mere feeling of contentment. It means being entrenched, deeply rooted, and steadfast. One definition I particularly love is “bred in the bone”—indicating something so intrinsic and fundamental that it’s part of who you are. We are “bred in the bone” to know Jesus in ways we’ve never encountered before, reaching depths of understanding and intimacy that transform our very nature.

In leadership, whether in business, ministry, or family, we often rely on what has worked in the past, or on our own strengths and comfort zones. We may end up leading from a place of habit rather than a place of divine inspiration. But God is calling us to a different standard: to lead by His Spirit, not by our own limited understanding or past successes. He prepares the works in advance for us to do, and He invites us to lead out of a settled confidence in His purposes and power.

Settling on God’s Promises: A Decision of the Heart

The concept of being settled in Christ is also about making a deliberate choice: what have you decided in your heart is true about Christ? What truths are you firmly established in? The settled heart knows that God’s promises are unwavering and that His plans are unshakeable. This settledness is a daily choice, rooted in Scripture and lived out through the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

When we lead from this place of being settled, our motivation shifts. It’s no longer about fulfilling obligations or meeting expectations; it’s about partnering with the Holy Spirit and allowing Him to guide our every step. This kind of leadership is marked by a reliance on God’s wisdom, not our own, and by a willingness to be flexible and innovative under His direction.

Authenticity and Joy in Leadership

The path to true settlement in Christ requires authenticity. Often in leadership, we can become caught up in portraying an image of strength and perfection, but God calls us to be real, to be vulnerable, and to lead from a place of genuine connection with Him. It’s in authenticity that others are drawn to follow, not because of our abilities, but because they see Christ in us.

Joy is also a critical component of a settled heart. In leadership, joy isn’t just a fleeting emotion but a deep, abiding state of being that comes from focusing on Jesus. It’s the joy of knowing that He holds all things together and that our ultimate success lies in Him, not in our efforts. As we lead from joy, we create environments where others feel valued, seen, and motivated.

The Neuroscience of Joy and Leadership

Interestingly, studies on the neuroscience of leadership align with biblical principles. Joy, it turns out, is a high-octane fuel for the brain, enhancing creativity, problem-solving, and resilience. When we cultivate joy, we tap into the fullness of who God created us to be. This joy flows from gratitude—an intentional focus on what is good, noble, and praiseworthy, as Philippians 4:8 encourages us to do.

When joy is present, it transforms not just individual leaders but entire teams and organizations. It builds relational trust, energizes collaboration, and fosters an environment where people are empowered to thrive. Joy-based leadership is not about ignoring challenges but facing them with a perspective anchored in the unshakeable joy of the Lord.

Leading from a Settled Heart

The world doesn’t need more leaders who simply get things done; it needs leaders who are firmly established in Christ, who lead from a place of unwavering trust and contagious joy.

May our leadership be marked by these qualities, and may we inspire others to settle their hearts on Jesus, allowing His Spirit to transform us into His dwelling place, bringing His kingdom into every sphere of influence we touch.

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