Paul experienced an inexpressible and irrepressible joy--an abiding feeling of peace, calm, tranquility, contentment, delight, and satisfaction that flows from within. It is the expression of the presence of God imprinted on the soul and the product of a conscience void of offense toward God.

A key to joy in the Christian life is to be able to recall the goodness of people--to look past imperfections to capture broader and sweeter realities. A heart dominated by the joy of the Holy Spirit remembers the sweet things in life without dwelling on the distressing things. It savors thoughts of another's goodness, kindness, love, compassion, gentleness, sacrifice, and care. It forgives the rest.
A heart where the Spirit of God is not in control tends to focus on everyone's unkindnesses, ingratitude, faults. Such a heart must learn to walk in the Spirit. Bitterness, unforgiveness, and a constant dwelling on evil are the works of the flesh. Paul's joy was expressed in pleasant memories, which is a work of the Spirit in the hearts of believers.