“You make known to me the path of life; You will fill me with joy in Your presence, with eternal pleasures at Your right hand.”
Psalm 16:11
You walk past the store displays. They dance below twinkling lights in glitter and gold. The sign above the beautiful display reads “J-O-Y” as though it’s the joy that’s for sale. But you’ve seen Christmas come and go, and the joy isn’t what’s for sale. The lights that once twinkled so brightly tend to fade. A true, lasting joy that goes beyond seasons is rooted in our relationship with God. It’s a gift that can sustain us through all seasons of life.
Psalm 16:11 was written by a man named David who was being hunted by another man who wanted him dead. David understood lasting joy could not be tied to circumstances. He attributed his joy to the Lord’s presence and great love. The path to joy is not found in the twinkling displays, worldly pleasures, or accumulation of possessions. Lasting joy is found in the presence of God through His Son, Jesus Christ.
As David’s story tells us, joy does not mean we won’t experience hardships or difficulties; joy is knowing God is always with us. When we learn more about who God is, we’re better able to connect and cultivate a deeper relationship with the Lord. We can do this through music, prayer, and reading His Word, the Bible. Through that, we discover a wellspring of joy that flows from the love of God.
Prayer:
God, You alone are the wellspring of joy. Joy that goes beyond circumstance or season. Remind my heart that joy is not found in possessions or accumulation of things but rather in Your presence and unconditional love. May I always trust in You, knowing You alone are my strength and joy. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
If you want more information about a relationship with Jesus, text the word FOLLOW to 41224