On Joy

Photo by Preslie Hirsch

“Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. ” (Psalm 16:11)

We know that at the foundation of our salvation is the fact that God has chosen us and made us His by Grace. Though from an eternal theological perspective we had no say in the matter, from our perspective, to seek God is to seek the best and most fulfilling option in existence. Consider the verse above.

God shows us the path of life. Certainly eternal life in Christ by faith through grace. Certainly the only means of escape from death and damnation. Certainly spiritual assurance despite challenges. But also the best way to live in this world. The path of life comes from God's revelation. How do you live? Not by bread alone but by what God says. Discord in the world has come from ignoring this. All the evil of history can be traced back to seeking the path of life from some other source rather than God. Praise the Lord for His clear direction to His people!

In His presence is fullness of Joy. When our comfort and contentment wanes it is often because we are dwelling on something or someone that is ungodly. Perhaps a fear of circumstances? Worry about something outside our apparent control? But with the Lord is unchanging unending joy. It is fixed and provided. The joy that comes with the heavenly Kingdom can be glimpsed at and known in part here for the Christian. It comes with a close relationship to the Father. The more deeply you know Him the greater your joy.

We can deceive ourselves with pleasure. Food, drink, passions, entertainment, sport, friends, family. All of these are good in the right context. However, the greatest pleasure comes from enjoying God. Enjoying God allows one to enjoy all the aspects of life to an even greater extent because He gives everything purpose, meaning, and future. Temporary pleasure without Him is an empty high that one craves to get back and weakens with each attempt. But in Him is fullness of pleasure. In fact the very origin of the concept. To enjoy God is to enjoy all His creation! So Christianity should be the most appealing way, truth and life. Pray that our dark rebellious hearts do not block out that reality. Pray for more souls to see the light of this truth. May our walk outwardly reflect our life, joy, and pleasure in Christ forever.