Introduction
Have you ever noticed how quickly your joy can disappear because of someone else’s words, actions, or attitude? Perhaps a harsh comment ruined your day. Maybe betrayal by a trusted friend left your heart wounded. You may have experienced criticism at work, conflict within your family, rejection in a relationship, or the sting of disappointment when life did not unfold as you hoped.
These moments can make it feel as though someone has stolen your peace and happiness. While people certainly have the power to hurt us, the Bible teaches an encouraging truth: our deepest joy does not have to depend on other people or our circumstances.
God never promised believers a life free from pain, but He did promise His presence, His peace, and a joy that remains even during suffering. Christian joy is not based on perfect circumstances or perfect people. Instead, it is rooted in a perfect Savior whose love never changes.
Jesus Himself faced rejection, betrayal, false accusations, and unimaginable suffering. Yet He remained completely faithful to the Father and demonstrated a joy that no enemy could extinguish. Because believers are united with Christ, they can experience that same enduring joy through the Holy Spirit.
If you have been wondering:
- How can I stop letting people control my emotions?
- What does the Bible say about protecting my joy?
- How do I stay joyful when people hurt me?
- Can Christians experience joy during difficult seasons?
Scripture offers clear, hope-filled answers. Throughout God’s Word, we discover that joy is not something people can truly steal—it is a gift God gives and sustains in those who trust Him.
This guide explores powerful Bible verses about not letting anyone steal your joy, explaining their meaning, biblical context, and practical application so you can learn to guard your heart and experience the lasting joy found only in Christ.
Quick Answer
The Bible teaches that no person should have the power to steal the joy God gives His children. Biblical joy is not merely an emotion—it is the deep confidence that God is sovereign, faithful, and always present. Verses such as John 16:22, Nehemiah 8:10, Philippians 4:4, Romans 15:13, and Psalm 16:11 remind believers that lasting joy comes from God’s presence rather than from circumstances or the opinions of others.
When Christians keep their eyes on Jesus, renew their minds with Scripture, forgive those who hurt them, trust God’s promises, and walk in the Holy Spirit, they can protect their joy even during life’s greatest challenges.
What Does the Bible Say About Not Letting Anyone Steal Your Joy?
Although the exact phrase “don’t let anyone steal your joy” does not appear word-for-word in Scripture, the principle is woven throughout the Bible.
The Bible consistently teaches that joy is one of God’s gifts to His people. Unlike worldly happiness—which rises and falls with circumstances—biblical joy flows from a relationship with the Lord.
This distinction is important.
Happiness often depends on external events:
- Everything goes well.
- People treat us kindly.
- Life feels comfortable.
- Our plans succeed.
Joy, however, comes from something much deeper.
Biblical joy grows from knowing that:
- God is always with us.
- Christ has already secured our salvation.
- God’s promises never fail.
- The Holy Spirit strengthens believers daily.
- Eternal hope outweighs temporary pain.
Because joy has a spiritual foundation, it cannot truly be stolen unless we allow our hearts to drift away from God’s truth.
Throughout Scripture we see faithful men and women maintaining joy despite extraordinary hardships.
Paul wrote about rejoicing while imprisoned.
David praised God while hiding from enemies.
Habakkuk declared joy during economic collapse.
Jesus endured the cross because of the joy set before Him.
These examples teach that circumstances do not determine joy—our relationship with God does.
The Bible also warns believers against allowing bitterness, fear, anxiety, anger, unforgiveness, envy, or worldly distractions to rob them of spiritual joy. Satan seeks to discourage God’s people, but Christ continually invites them to remain rooted in His love.
As believers spend time in prayer, meditate on Scripture, worship faithfully, and trust God’s sovereignty, their joy becomes increasingly resilient.
That is why protecting your joy is ultimately about protecting your relationship with God.
Why Joy Matters in the Christian Life
Joy is far more than a pleasant feeling.
Scripture presents joy as evidence of spiritual maturity and a fruit produced by the Holy Spirit.
A joyful Christian reflects confidence in God’s character, even when life is difficult.
Joy also strengthens believers to endure trials without losing hope.
When Christians maintain joy during hardship, they become powerful witnesses to God’s faithfulness. Others notice the peace that cannot be explained by circumstances alone.
Furthermore, joy fuels worship, encourages perseverance, strengthens relationships, and reminds believers that their ultimate hope is found in Christ rather than in temporary earthly experiences.
Protecting your joy, therefore, is not selfish—it is part of living faithfully before God.
Bible Verses About Finding Joy in God’s Presence
One of the greatest biblical truths is that lasting joy begins with God’s presence rather than perfect circumstances.
1. John 16:22
“So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.”
Meaning and Context
Jesus spoke these words to His disciples shortly before His crucifixion. They were about to experience confusion, grief, and fear. Yet Jesus assured them that His resurrection would replace temporary sorrow with lasting joy.
The phrase, “no one will take your joy from you,” is one of Scripture’s strongest promises regarding enduring spiritual joy.
The disciples would later face imprisonment, persecution, and even martyrdom, but their joy remained because it rested in the risen Christ.
Practical Application
People may disappoint you.
Circumstances may change.
Life may become incredibly difficult.
Yet if your joy rests in Jesus rather than in people, it remains secure. Every time someone hurts you, remember that Christ has already given you something the world cannot remove.
Why This Verse Still Matters Today
In a culture where emotions often depend on social approval, relationships, or success, Jesus reminds believers that true joy has an eternal source.
2. Psalm 16:11
“You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”
Meaning and Context
David declares that the greatest source of joy is not wealth, popularity, or achievement—it is God’s presence.
Notice that David says fullness of joy, not partial joy.
God offers complete satisfaction that earthly pleasures can never fully provide.
Practical Application
Instead of searching for happiness through people’s approval, spend intentional time with God through prayer, worship, and Scripture.
The closer you grow to Him, the less control other people have over your emotional well-being.
Reflection
Many people spend years chasing happiness while neglecting the very source of lasting joy. This verse gently redirects our hearts back to the Lord.
3. Romans 15:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”
Meaning and Context
Paul reminds believers that joy comes from trusting God.
Notice the progression:
- Believe God.
- Receive joy.
- Experience peace.
- Overflow with hope.
Joy is produced by the Holy Spirit, not by favourable circumstances.
Practical Application
Whenever discouragement comes, ask yourself:
“Am I believing God’s promises or listening more closely to my fears?”
Faith strengthens joy because it keeps our attention fixed on God’s faithfulness.
Reflection
This verse reminds us that joy grows wherever trust in God grows.
4. Nehemiah 8:10
“Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
Meaning and Context
After hearing God’s Law read aloud, the Israelites became deeply convicted of their sins.
Instead of allowing them to remain overwhelmed by guilt, Nehemiah reminded them that God’s forgiveness and covenant love were reasons to rejoice.
Their strength would not come from human determination but from God’s joy.
Practical Application
When guilt, shame, or criticism weighs you down, remember that God’s grace is greater than your failures.
His joy gives strength to keep moving forward.
Reflection
Many believers allow shame to steal their joy long after God has forgiven them. This verse reminds us to live confidently in His grace.
5. Psalm 28:7
“The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.”
Meaning and Context
David praises God after experiencing divine protection and answered prayer.
His joy comes not because life has become easy but because God has proven Himself trustworthy.
Practical Application
When facing criticism or conflict, remember previous moments when God faithfully carried you through difficult seasons.
Past faithfulness builds present joy.
Reflection
Gratitude often protects joy. The more we remember God’s goodness, the less room discouragement has to grow.
Bible Verses About Rejoicing Even During Trials
God never tells His children to pretend suffering doesn’t exist. Instead, He teaches us how to find genuine joy even in life’s hardest seasons because He is working through every trial for our good.
6. James 1:2–4
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
Meaning and Context
James wrote to Jewish Christians who had been scattered because of persecution. Many had lost homes, jobs, possessions, and relationships because of their faith.
Rather than promising immediate relief, James encouraged them to view their trials through God’s perspective.
He did not say the trials themselves were joyful. Instead, believers can rejoice because God uses hardships to strengthen faith, build spiritual maturity, and shape Christlike character.
Practical Application
When someone hurts you or unfairly criticises you, ask:
- What is God teaching me?
- How is this experience strengthening my faith?
- How can I respond in a way that honours Christ?
Viewing challenges through the lens of God’s purpose protects your joy from being consumed by temporary pain.
Why This Verse Still Matters Today
Modern believers face stress, rejection, family conflict, financial uncertainty, and emotional struggles. James reminds us that none of these hardships are wasted in God’s hands.
Related Scriptures: Romans 5:3–5; 1 Peter 1:6–7.
7. Habakkuk 3:17–18
“Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines… yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation.”
Meaning and Context
Habakkuk looked ahead to a devastating national crisis. Crops would fail, livestock would disappear, and the economy would collapse.
Yet he made one of the Bible’s greatest declarations of faith.
His joy rested not in material blessings but in God’s unchanging character.
Practical Application
Sometimes joy disappears because we attach it to:
- Financial success
- Career achievements
- Healthy relationships
- Personal goals
- Comfortable circumstances
Habakkuk teaches us to anchor our joy in God Himself rather than His gifts.
Reflection
When everything around us changes, God remains faithful. That truth alone gives believers lasting confidence.
8. Romans 5:3–5
“Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope.”
Meaning and Context
Paul explains that suffering is never the end of God’s story.
Instead, every trial becomes part of God’s process of spiritual growth.
Each difficulty develops:
- Endurance
- Godly character
- Stronger hope
- Greater dependence on God
Practical Application
Instead of asking only, “Why is this happening to me?”
Ask,
“What is God producing within me?”
That simple shift in perspective often restores joy.
Reflection
Temporary suffering cannot compare with the eternal hope believers possess in Christ.
Bible Verses About Rejoicing Always
One of the most repeated commands in Scripture is to rejoice.
This command would be impossible if joy depended solely on favourable circumstances.
Instead, God commands joy because He continually provides reasons to rejoice.
9. Philippians 4:4
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.”
Meaning and Context
Paul wrote these words while imprisoned.
His circumstances were anything but comfortable.
Yet his focus remained fixed on Christ rather than his chains.
Notice that Paul says:
Rejoice in the Lord
—not—
Rejoice in your circumstances.
The source makes all the difference.
Practical Application
Whenever negative people threaten your joy, redirect your attention toward God’s goodness.
Spend time:
- Praising Him.
- Reading Scripture.
- Thanking Him.
- Remembering answered prayers.
Joy grows where worship flourishes.
Reflection
People may influence your mood, but only you decide where your heart will remain focused.
10. 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
Meaning and Context
Paul links three spiritual habits together:
- Joy
- Prayer
- Gratitude
These practices continually reinforce one another.
A praying believer becomes a thankful believer.
A thankful believer often becomes a joyful believer.
Practical Application
When discouragement begins to grow, intentionally write down five blessings God has given you.
Gratitude shifts your attention from what has been lost to what God continues to provide.
Reflection
A grateful heart is difficult for bitterness to conquer.
Bible Verses About Guarding Your Heart
Sometimes our joy disappears because we allow negative influences to take root in our hearts.
Scripture repeatedly teaches believers to protect their inner life.
11. Proverbs 4:23
“Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.”
Meaning and Context
In biblical language, the heart represents the centre of our thoughts, emotions, desires, and decisions.
Everything we do flows from its condition.
If bitterness, envy, resentment, or fear settle into our hearts, joy naturally fades.
Practical Application
Guard your heart by carefully choosing:
- What you watch
- What you listen to
- Who influences you
- What thoughts you dwell upon
Healthy spiritual habits strengthen lasting joy.
Reflection
Not everyone deserves unlimited access to your heart. Wisdom sometimes requires healthy boundaries.
12. Isaiah 26:3
“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.”
Meaning and Context
Isaiah reminds God’s people that peace grows through steadfast trust.
The Hebrew expression translated “perfect peace” literally conveys complete, enduring peace.
Practical Application
If someone’s actions continually occupy your thoughts, intentionally replace those thoughts with God’s promises.
Meditate on Scripture rather than replaying painful conversations.
Reflection
Where the mind consistently rests, the heart eventually follows.
Bible Verses About Overcoming Fear and Discouragement
Fear often becomes one of the greatest thieves of joy.
God repeatedly calls His people to trust Him instead of allowing fear to dominate their hearts.
13. Joshua 1:9
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Meaning and Context
Joshua faced the enormous responsibility of leading Israel after Moses’ death.
Humanly speaking, fear was understandable.
Yet God’s promise of His presence became Joshua’s greatest source of confidence.
Practical Application
Whenever people intimidate or discourage you, remember that God’s approval matters far more than human opinion.
His presence never leaves His children.
Reflection
Confidence grows when we focus less on our circumstances and more on God’s faithfulness.
14. Psalm 118:24
“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
Meaning and Context
This psalm celebrates God’s saving work and His continual faithfulness.
Each day becomes another opportunity to experience God’s grace.
Practical Application
Begin every morning with worship before checking social media, news headlines, or emails.
Starting the day with God helps protect your joy from outside influences.
Reflection
Joy often begins with how we choose to start each day.
15. John 15:11
“These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.”
Meaning and Context
Jesus spoke these words while teaching His disciples about abiding in Him like branches connected to a vine.
Their joy would remain full only as they continued walking closely with Him.
Practical Application
Whenever you notice your joy fading, ask yourself:
- Am I spending regular time with Jesus?
- Am I remaining connected through prayer?
- Am I obeying His Word?
Spiritual closeness restores spiritual joy.
Reflection
Full joy is found not through striving but through abiding in Christ.
Bible Verses About Trusting God Instead of People
Many believers lose joy because they place too much confidence in human approval.
The Bible lovingly redirects our trust toward God.
16. Psalm 62:5–8
“For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him.”
Meaning and Context
David experienced betrayal by trusted companions, opposition from enemies, and political unrest.
Yet instead of allowing people to determine his emotional state, he intentionally placed his hope in God alone.
Practical Application
When someone disappoints you, remind yourself that people will always fall short—but God never will. Healthy relationships are a blessing, but they were never meant to replace your dependence on the Lord.
Reflection
The more your hope is anchored in God, the less vulnerable your joy becomes to the changing opinions and actions of others.
Bible Verses About Resisting the Enemy Who Seeks to Steal Your Joy
The Bible reveals that our struggle is not merely against difficult people but also against spiritual opposition. Satan delights in using fear, discouragement, temptation, and division to weaken believers. Yet God provides everything we need to stand firm.
17. John 10:10
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”
Meaning and Context
Jesus contrasts His mission with that of the enemy.
The thief represents Satan, whose goal is destruction. Jesus, however, came to give abundant life—a life filled with peace, purpose, hope, and joy.
Although this verse is not speaking exclusively about emotions, it reminds believers that discouragement and despair do not come from God’s heart.
Practical Application
Whenever you feel overwhelmed by negativity, ask whether your thoughts are drawing you closer to Christ or pulling you away from Him.
Choose to dwell on God’s truth rather than the enemy’s lies.
Reflection
Jesus offers abundant life that extends beyond temporary happiness. His joy remains even in difficult seasons because it is rooted in eternal hope.
Related Scriptures: Ephesians 6:10–18; 1 Peter 5:8–9.
18. Ephesians 6:11
“Put on the whole armour of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.”
Meaning and Context
Paul describes the Christian life as a spiritual battle. Believers are called to wear God’s armour, including truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, and the Word of God.
A well-equipped Christian is less likely to be overcome by discouragement, fear, or bitterness.
Practical Application
Begin each day by consciously trusting God, reading Scripture, praying, and asking the Holy Spirit for wisdom. Spiritual preparation strengthens your heart before challenges arise.
Reflection
Guarding your joy begins long before difficult situations occur. Daily time with God equips you to respond with faith instead of fear.
Bible Verses About Choosing Peace Instead of Bitterness
One of the quickest ways to lose joy is by allowing resentment to settle in our hearts. The Bible repeatedly calls believers to forgive as they have been forgiven.
19. Ephesians 4:31–32
“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamour and slander be put away from you… Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
Meaning and Context
Paul encourages believers to replace destructive attitudes with forgiveness and compassion.
Bitterness may seem justified after we’ve been hurt, but it often harms us more than the person who caused the pain.
Practical Application
Forgiveness does not excuse wrongdoing or erase healthy boundaries. Instead, it releases your desire for revenge into God’s hands and frees your heart to experience His peace.
Reflection
Choosing forgiveness protects your joy because it prevents bitterness from taking root.
20. Colossians 3:15
“And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.”
Meaning and Context
Paul encourages believers to allow Christ’s peace to govern their thoughts, decisions, and relationships.
The word “rule” carries the idea of an umpire who determines the outcome. God’s peace should have the final say—not anger, anxiety, or fear.
Practical Application
When conflict arises, pause before reacting. Pray first, seek wisdom from Scripture, and respond in a way that reflects Christ’s character.
Reflection
Peace and joy often grow together. A heart ruled by Christ’s peace is far less vulnerable to emotional turmoil.
How to Keep Anyone from Stealing Your Joy: Biblical Action Steps
Reading Bible verses is only the beginning. Lasting transformation happens when we put God’s Word into practice. Here are practical, biblical habits that help protect your joy.
1. Make Your Relationship with Christ Your Greatest Priority
Joy flows from abiding in Jesus, not from people’s approval. Spend consistent time in prayer, worship, and Bible study so your heart remains rooted in God’s truth.
Key Verse: John 15:11
2. Fill Your Mind with Scripture
The thoughts you entertain shape your emotions. Regularly memorise verses about God’s faithfulness, peace, and joy so you can replace discouraging thoughts with biblical truth.
Key Verse: Romans 12:2
3. Refuse to Live for Human Approval
People’s opinions change, but God’s love never does. Seek to please Christ above all else, remembering that your identity is found in Him.
Related Scripture: Galatians 1:10
4. Practice Gratitude Every Day
A thankful heart naturally notices God’s blessings instead of focusing only on life’s disappointments.
Consider ending each day by writing down three ways God has been faithful.
Key Verse: Psalm 103:1–5
5. Forgive Quickly
Holding onto resentment gives hurt a permanent place in your heart.
Ask God to help you forgive, even when doing so feels difficult.
Forgiveness may be a process, but it begins with a willing heart.
6. Choose Your Influences Wisely
Not everyone should have equal influence over your thinking.
Spend time with people who encourage your faith, speak truth with love, and point you toward Christ.
Related Scripture: Proverbs 13:20
7. Pray Before You React
When someone hurts you, your first response often determines whether your joy survives the situation.
Prayer slows emotional reactions and invites God’s wisdom into difficult conversations.
8. Remember Your Eternal Hope
Every hardship is temporary.
Because of Christ, believers have an eternal inheritance that can never be taken away.
Keeping eternity in view helps us endure today’s challenges with confidence and joy.
Related Scripture: 1 Peter 1:3–9
A Prayer for Protecting Your Joy
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for being the true source of lasting joy. When people disappoint me, circumstances become difficult, or discouragement fills my heart, remind me that my hope is found in You alone.
Help me not to give anyone the power to steal the joy You have placed within me through Jesus Christ. Guard my heart against bitterness, fear, anxiety, comparison, and unforgiveness. Fill me instead with Your peace, Your wisdom, and the joy of the Holy Spirit.
Teach me to trust Your promises even when I cannot understand what You are doing. Give me strength to forgive those who have hurt me, courage to stand firm in my faith, and grace to respond with love instead of anger.
May my life reflect the confidence, peace, and hope that come from walking closely with You. Let my joy become a testimony of Your faithfulness so that others may see Christ through my words and actions.
Thank You for promising never to leave me or forsake me. I choose today to rejoice in You, knowing that Your love is constant and Your joy is my strength.
In the name of Jesus, Amen.
FAQs
1. What does the Bible say about not letting people steal your joy?
Although the Bible does not use the exact phrase, it consistently teaches that true joy comes from God rather than from people or circumstances. Jesus said in John 16:22 that no one can take away the joy He gives His followers. Believers protect that joy by remaining close to Christ, trusting God’s promises, and refusing to let bitterness or fear rule their hearts.
2. Can someone really steal my joy?
People can deeply hurt us and influence our emotions, but they cannot take away the joy that comes from a relationship with Christ. Lasting biblical joy is rooted in God’s presence and remains available even during difficult seasons.
3. What is the difference between joy and happiness?
Happiness usually depends on favourable circumstances, while biblical joy is a deep confidence in God’s goodness regardless of what is happening. Happiness may come and go, but joy remains because it is grounded in God’s unchanging character.
4. Which Bible verse says no one can take your joy?
John 16:22 contains one of the clearest promises:
“No one will take your joy from you.”
Jesus spoke these words to His disciples before His crucifixion, assuring them that His resurrection would bring lasting joy.
5. How can I stay joyful when people hurt me?
Spend time with God in prayer, meditate on Scripture, forgive those who wrong you, seek wise Christian fellowship, and remember that your identity is found in Christ rather than in other people’s opinions.
6. Is joy a fruit of the Holy Spirit?
Yes. Galatians 5:22–23 lists joy as one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit. As believers grow in their relationship with Christ and yield to the Spirit’s work, joy becomes increasingly evident in their lives.
7. Can Christians have joy during suffering?
Absolutely. Throughout Scripture, believers such as Paul, James, Peter, and Habakkuk demonstrate that joy is possible even in hardship because God is present, faithful, and working through every trial for His purposes.
8. What are the biggest joy stealers according to the Bible?
Common “joy stealers” include fear, anxiety, bitterness, unforgiveness, pride, envy, sinful compromise, and losing sight of God’s promises. Scripture calls believers to replace these attitudes with faith, gratitude, forgiveness, and trust in the Lord.
9. How do I protect my joy every day?
Develop daily habits such as reading Scripture, praying, worshipping, practising gratitude, spending time with encouraging believers, and remembering God’s faithfulness. These spiritual disciplines strengthen your heart and help you remain focused on Christ.
10. Why is Christian joy important?
Joy strengthens believers to endure trials, glorifies God, encourages others, and reflects the transforming work of the Holy Spirit. A joyful life serves as a powerful witness to the hope found in Jesus Christ.
Final Encouragement
Life will bring seasons of sorrow. People may disappoint you, misunderstand you, betray your trust, or speak words that wound your heart. There will be days when circumstances tempt you to believe that your joy has disappeared forever.
Yet God’s Word tells a different story.
Your joy is not ultimately found in your job, your health, your relationships, your achievements, or the opinions of others. It is found in the unchanging love of Jesus Christ. Because He conquered sin and death through His death and resurrection, believers possess a hope that no hardship can destroy.
The apostle Paul rejoiced in prison. David sang praises while fleeing from his enemies. Habakkuk rejoiced during national disaster. Above all, Jesus endured the cross “for the joy set before Him” (Hebrews 12:2), demonstrating that eternal joy is stronger than temporary suffering.
Whenever you feel your joy slipping away, return to God’s presence. Open His Word. Pour out your heart in prayer. Worship Him even when your emotions feel weak. Remember His past faithfulness, trust His present guidance, and rest in His future promises.The world may offer fleeting happiness, but Christ offers lasting joy.So choose each day to fix your eyes on Him, guard your heart with His truth, and walk confidently in the assurance that the joy the Lord gives is a gift no person can truly steal.
