In one of David’s psalms, he wrote. . .
“(6) There are many who say, “Who will show us some good? Lift up the light of your face upon us, O LORD!” (7) You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound. (8) In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.” (Psalm 4:6-8 ESV)
Understanding the truly good comes from the One Who is wholly good — the one who gives every good and perfect gift (James 1:17) — what has become the source of our joy in life? For that joy to be lasting, it must be properly based. True joy is not found in the amassing of stuff in life — physical plenty — but is the enduring joy of the Lord. The things of life get used up or can be destroyed or taken away. The Lord, and the hope He provides, is forever. That is why only lasting joy is found in the relationship with Him. It is joy based not merely on physical, but on spiritual prosperity! (i.e. Ephesians 1:3) Are we truly prospering in the Lord?
As the disciples struggled to understand the period of separation Jesus told them was soon to take place, He noted they would experience sorrow, but only for a short while. What would soon follow would be a joy no one could take from them. (John 16:22) There is nothing materialistic that could ever provide such lasting joy! Therefore, let us find rest in the reality of the joy in the Lord as we live in the light of His face!
Have a great day SUSTAINED BY GODLY JOY IN THE GOOD OF GOD!
Carl
