Joy

 

     As we look for God’s opportunities and blessings throughout the changes in life, we can look back on countless joys.  Somehow, our kids have grown into amazing adults, having conquered change after change of their own. The joy of watching them grow, find their true loves and become parents has brought us countless change and countless moments of joy.

     The word “joy” is found over 200 times in Scripture. Much of the joy is found in times of worshipping God. Being in His presence brings the deepest kind of joy. Our earthly moments of joy are mingled with our times of sadness, complacency, anger, worry and hardship.

     The joy of the Lord is our strength. (see Nehemiah 8). The joy found in Jesus is deep and abiding. Remember Him throughout your days, whatever life brings and find joy. And bask in those fleeting earthly moments of delight, with friends, family and those immeasurable moments with grandkids or other children around you. They know how to find delight. And joy is found in Jesus and in the heaven that awaits us.

Splendor and majesty are before Him. Strength and joy are in His dwelling place. 1 Chronicles 16:27

He will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy. Job 8:21

But let all those who take refuge in You be glad. Let them sing for joy. Spread Your protection over them that those who love Your name may rejoice in You. Psalm 5:11

     I could fill page after page with the joy in Scripture. The Psalms are filled with words of joy and worship. I leave you with one more. Rejoice in His presence, even when it is tough to find joy. You are loved.

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

Father,

Your joys will last through eternity. Remind us of the earthly moments of joy and blessing as we await our heavenly home.

In Jesus name,

Amen