Joy: 37-Day Devotionalنموونە

Is your heart full of joy today in the presence of the Lord? Oh, I hope it is! It’s easy to sing and be glad when everything is working according to plan, but what happens to your joy when dreams vanish? How can you stand and sing, “God is so good, He’s so good to me” when fresh grief threatens your joy? 

Honestly, in those seasons when you doubt His goodness, you can trust that He is at work accomplishing His purposes for your good and His glory. I was happily surprised by an epiphany of joy following a long season of struggling with infertility. The profound grief took a toll and my emotions were out of whack when God stepped in and brought a marvelous transformation in my heart. Healing began with a decision to memorize and meditate on the living, active Word of God leading to a fuller understanding of our Lord’s suffering and unfailing love. There was a new hunger to pray and worship and to love others unconditionally—knowing that they too were walking through painful trials.

Your reward for memorizing Scripture will be the joy of His presence in the midst of your pain. I don’t know what battle you’re facing, but be assured God knows and His desire is for you to counsel your heart with His promises. Hiding His Word in your heart is work, but it’s worth more than you will ever know. My hope and prayer for you as you walk through seasons of joy and seasons of difficulty is that God will illumine your life in such a way that Christ becomes visible to everyone you meet.

Heavenly Father, we praise and thank You for who You are. You are awesome! King of all the earth. What an honor it is to be in relationship with You and enjoy Your sanctifying, sustaining presence. Gift us with Your grace as we joyfully hide Your Word in our heart so that others will see Your infinite beauty. Amen.