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Listen "28. From Counterfeit Happiness to True Joy | What Your Soul Is Really Searching For"
Episode Synopsis
In this episode of The Highest Self Project we explore a transformative idea: that life isn’t about the pursuit of happiness, but the cultivation of true joy—joy that sustains us no matter what life throws our way.
Happiness is external and fleeting, tied to circumstances and achievements. But joy? Joy is deeper. It’s eternal. It’s rooted in hope, purpose, and trust that life is happening for us, even in the hard seasons.
Inspired by a recent sermon from Pastor Amanda, I share personal reflections on the concept of “counterfeit joy”—the shallow kind we chase in possessions, success, or image—and how we can trade it for authentic joy that flows from being fully present and trusting God’s goodness.
Drawing on the wisdom of C.S. Lewis and Dallas Willard, we unpack the ways you can find joy—not by escaping life’s struggles, but by showing up in them, fully alive and open to growth.
If you’re feeling weighed down, disconnected, or in a difficult season, this episode will remind you: joy doesn’t mean pretending everything is okay; it’s trusting that everything will be okay in the end.
True Joy vs. Counterfeit Joy
Counterfeit joy comes from chasing external achievements, possessions, or validation, but it doesn’t last.
True joy is internal, sustainable, and rooted in God’s presence and purpose for our lives.
Joy is Found in Presence
Take small moments each day to pause, breathe, and embrace where you are.
Dallas Willard reminds us that joy comes when we allow ourselves to be fully here in the present moment.
Shift Your Perspective
Instead of asking, “Why is this happening to me?” try asking, “What can I learn from this? How might this be shaping me?”
Even in suffering, there is purpose.
Anchor Yourself in Hope
Write down reminders of God’s promises—scriptures, affirmations, or prayers—and return to them when you feel overwhelmed.
As C.S. Lewis says: “When we lose one blessing, another is often most unexpectedly given in its place.”
Let Yourself Feel
Joy doesn’t mean suppressing emotions or numbing the pain. It’s about showing up fully—trusting that even in the darkness, light is coming.
Connect with Others
Share your struggles and joys with people you trust. Joy grows when we allow ourselves to connect deeply and authentically.
“Joy is not a passing sensation of pleasure, but a pervasive and constant sense of well-being. Hope in the goodness of God is joy's indispensable support.” — Dallas Willard
“All joy reminds. It is never a possession, always a desire for something longer ago or further away or still about to be.” — C.S. Lewis
“When we lose one blessing, another is often most unexpectedly given in its place.” — C.S. Lewis
[00:00] Introduction – Why this message is so timely and personal.
[03:30] The Pursuit of Joy – How joy differs from happiness and why this matters.
[09:00] Counterfeit Joy vs. True Joy – What counterfeit joy looks like and why it leaves us empty.
[15:00] Personal Story – A reflection on my own journey of finding joy through hard seasons.
[20:00] Practical Takeaways – Five actionable ways to cultivate joy, no matter your circumstances.
[28:00] Closing Thoughts – A reminder to trust in God’s promises and allow yourself to see joy, even in the small, quiet moments.
Surprised by Joy by C.S. Lewis
Romans 8:28 – "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him..."
The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard
Follow me on Instagram: @fernanda.bertrand
Share your thoughts on this episode or send me a message—I’d love to hear what resonated with you.
Subscribe to the podcast for more episodes like this!
If you found today’s message meaningful, share it with a friend who might need encouragement. Together, let’s pursue joy—real, lasting joy that transcends the moment and reminds us we are never alone.
Happiness is external and fleeting, tied to circumstances and achievements. But joy? Joy is deeper. It’s eternal. It’s rooted in hope, purpose, and trust that life is happening for us, even in the hard seasons.
Inspired by a recent sermon from Pastor Amanda, I share personal reflections on the concept of “counterfeit joy”—the shallow kind we chase in possessions, success, or image—and how we can trade it for authentic joy that flows from being fully present and trusting God’s goodness.
Drawing on the wisdom of C.S. Lewis and Dallas Willard, we unpack the ways you can find joy—not by escaping life’s struggles, but by showing up in them, fully alive and open to growth.
If you’re feeling weighed down, disconnected, or in a difficult season, this episode will remind you: joy doesn’t mean pretending everything is okay; it’s trusting that everything will be okay in the end.
True Joy vs. Counterfeit Joy
Counterfeit joy comes from chasing external achievements, possessions, or validation, but it doesn’t last.
True joy is internal, sustainable, and rooted in God’s presence and purpose for our lives.
Joy is Found in Presence
Take small moments each day to pause, breathe, and embrace where you are.
Dallas Willard reminds us that joy comes when we allow ourselves to be fully here in the present moment.
Shift Your Perspective
Instead of asking, “Why is this happening to me?” try asking, “What can I learn from this? How might this be shaping me?”
Even in suffering, there is purpose.
Anchor Yourself in Hope
Write down reminders of God’s promises—scriptures, affirmations, or prayers—and return to them when you feel overwhelmed.
As C.S. Lewis says: “When we lose one blessing, another is often most unexpectedly given in its place.”
Let Yourself Feel
Joy doesn’t mean suppressing emotions or numbing the pain. It’s about showing up fully—trusting that even in the darkness, light is coming.
Connect with Others
Share your struggles and joys with people you trust. Joy grows when we allow ourselves to connect deeply and authentically.
“Joy is not a passing sensation of pleasure, but a pervasive and constant sense of well-being. Hope in the goodness of God is joy's indispensable support.” — Dallas Willard
“All joy reminds. It is never a possession, always a desire for something longer ago or further away or still about to be.” — C.S. Lewis
“When we lose one blessing, another is often most unexpectedly given in its place.” — C.S. Lewis
[00:00] Introduction – Why this message is so timely and personal.
[03:30] The Pursuit of Joy – How joy differs from happiness and why this matters.
[09:00] Counterfeit Joy vs. True Joy – What counterfeit joy looks like and why it leaves us empty.
[15:00] Personal Story – A reflection on my own journey of finding joy through hard seasons.
[20:00] Practical Takeaways – Five actionable ways to cultivate joy, no matter your circumstances.
[28:00] Closing Thoughts – A reminder to trust in God’s promises and allow yourself to see joy, even in the small, quiet moments.
Surprised by Joy by C.S. Lewis
Romans 8:28 – "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him..."
The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard
Follow me on Instagram: @fernanda.bertrand
Share your thoughts on this episode or send me a message—I’d love to hear what resonated with you.
Subscribe to the podcast for more episodes like this!
If you found today’s message meaningful, share it with a friend who might need encouragement. Together, let’s pursue joy—real, lasting joy that transcends the moment and reminds us we are never alone.
In God we trust