Lyrics
Chorus
I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart, where?
Down in my heart! Where?
Down in my heart!
I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart
Down in my heart to stay
Verse 1
And I'm so happy, so very happy
I've got the love of Jesus in my heart
Down in my heart
And I'm so happy, so very happy
I've got the love of Jesus in my heart
Chorus
I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart, where?
Down in my heart! Where?
Down in my heart!
I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart
Down in my heart to stay
Verse 2
And I'm so happy, so very happy
I've got the love of Jesus in my heart
Down in my heart
And I'm so happy, so very happy
I've got the love of Jesus in my heart
Verse 3
I've got the peace that passes understanding
Way down in the depths of my heart! Where?
Down in the depths of my heart! Where?
Down in the depths of my heart!
I've got the peace that passes understanding
Way down in the depths of my heart!
Down in my heart to stay
Verse 4
And I'm so happy, so very happy
I've got the love of Jesus in my heart
Down in my heart
And I'm so happy, so very happy
I've got the love of Jesus in my heart
Video
Meaning & Inspiration
Heritage Kids sing this classic children's action song, with a call-and-response question of "where?" answered by "down in my heart." The first part is about joy that stays, the second about the love of Jesus, and a final verse adds "the peace that passes understanding."
That last line comes straight from Philippians 4:7, and the joy theme echoes Psalm 16:11 and Nehemiah 8:10. The simple repeated words make it easy for young children to learn, and the question-and-answer shape invites actions and clapping.
It fits Sunday school, children's church and family singing times, where the message is that Jesus gives lasting happiness that does not depend on circumstances. Leaders can add motions for each "where?" and let the children shout the answer, which keeps the truth about Christ's love memorable long after the song ends. Parents can also sing it in the car or at bedtime.
Related Scripture
- Philippians 4:7 The peace of God surpasses all understanding.
- Nehemiah 8:10 The joy of the Lord is strength.
- Psalm 16:11 Fullness of joy is found in God's presence.
- John 15:11 Jesus speaks so that His joy may be in His followers.