In a world filled with stress, disappointment, and hardship, finding joy can seem like an impossible task. But Dino Rizzo emphasizes that joy isn’t just a feeling dependent on life’s circumstances—it’s a choice. Drawing inspiration from Paul the Apostle’s teachings, Rizzo explores the concept of “permission to rejoice,” reminding us that joy is always available, even amidst the darkest of times.
The Source of True Joy
Dino Rizzo often refers to Paul the Apostle’s life as an example of how joy is not based on external circumstances. Paul, despite facing extreme hardships time and time again, continuously emphasized the importance of rejoicing. Rizzo asserts this is a powerful reminder that joy comes not from what’s happening around us but from something deeper—our relationship with God.
Even though Paul was in prison, physically bound and guarded by soldiers, he continued to speak of joy. Dino Rizzo explains that this shows how believers can choose to rejoice even when life seems difficult. This kind of joy transcends circumstances, offering strength and hope regardless of external challenges.
Joy is a Choice, Not a Reaction
One of the key takeaways from Dino Rizzo’s message is that joy isn’t a reaction to good fortune or smooth sailing in life. Instead, it is a conscious choice. Rizzo argues that society often grants us permission to be negative, bitter, or cynical when things go wrong.
However, Rizzo encourages believers to embrace a different approach—the Bible’s call to rejoice, even in adversity. He highlights how Paul’s focus wasn’t on his chains but on his connection with God. This mindset allowed Paul to find joy, no matter how difficult his circumstances.
Dino Rizzo’s message is that everyone can make this same choice to focus on joy, regardless of what life throws at them.
Rejoicing Again and Again
Another key point Dino Rizzo emphasizes is that rejoicing is not a one-time event. Just as Paul repeatedly chose joy, Rizzo encourages believers to make joy a daily decision. Life will always present new challenges, but continually choosing to rejoice strengthens our faith and provides renewed peace.
Rizzo explains that joy, like a muscle, grows stronger with use. The more we choose joy, the more resilience we build to face life’s struggles. He reminds us that joy is something we can come back to, time and time again, even when circumstances are hard. This persistent joy is based on a deep, unshakable foundation rather than what occurs around us.
The Permission to Rejoice
Dino Rizzo’s message is a powerful reminder that, while the world may give us permission to be bitter or angry, God gives us permission to rejoice. As Paul the Apostle’s example shows, joy is not dependent on perfect conditions—it’s a choice we can make.
No matter what challenges we face, Dino Rizzo asserts that we have permission to rejoice. By choosing joy daily, we tap into a strength and peace that comes from something greater than our circumstances. This message of hope encourages us to rise above life’s trials and embrace the joy that is always available to us in our faith.
About Dino Rizzo:
Dino Rizzo, a 35-year ministry veteran, co-founded Healing Place Church with his wife, DeLynn, where he served as senior pastor for two decades. Through his passion for inspiring believers to serve their communities, Dino Rizzo also founded Servolution.
In addition, Dino Rizzo is the President of the Association of Related Churches (ARC), where he oversees the planting of over 1,000 churches worldwide. He is also on the Senior Leadership Team at Church of the Highlands and is the author of Serve Your City: How to Do It and Why It Matters.