David Wilkerson addresses the tragedy of many Christians living in unhappiness despite outward appearances of joy. He highlights the emotional rollercoaster that believers often experience, marked by fear and depression, which can also affect their relationships, particularly marriages. Wilkerson urges Christians to recognize the influence of the devil in their lives, as many allow him to take control due to a lack of spiritual authority. He emphasizes that Jesus died for believers to live in victory, not to be captives of Satan. The call to action is to seek God wholeheartedly, which will lead to true and lasting joy.

Robert Murray M'Cheyne emphasizes the true pleasantness of being a child of God, contrasting the fleeting and false pleasures of the unconverted with the enduring joy found in Christ. He illustrates how, despite Christ's sorrows, He maintained a holy joy, and similarly, believers can experience profound joy amidst their struggles. M'Cheyne argues that true happiness comes from forgiveness, sanctification, and the eternal nature of God's promises, encouraging believers to live joyfully and to recognize the folly of seeking pleasure apart from Christ. He warns the unconverted of the temporary nature of their joys and the impending judgment they face without Christ.