You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Ps 16:11
You are never not-in-the-presence of God… ever! The Bible teaches us that He's in all things and through all things, which means that when we don't ‘feel' His presence, it's got nothing to with His position and everything to do with ours!
It's only when you thank God for what you have (and there's always something to thank Him for) that His presence becomes felt.
Thanksgiving engages our awareness of His presence. If you're feeling like God is far away, He didn't move. The challenge, in these moments, is to look for and start counting every little blessing in your life. It's hard to be downcast while focusing on the good things He has done and provided in your life.
That's why this Psalm says “…in Your presence is fullness of joy…” because it's thankfulness that unlocks His presence… and with it comes joy.
Try it next time your feeling down. Start counting your blessings and thanking God, even for the smallest things. The most recent meal you ate (most of this world go without). Your favourite TV show or album. A family member or friend. The fact that your heart functions the way it was intended…that you have legs… and arms (some people go through this life without either!) A roof over your head… A SMART PHONE… THE INTERNET! You are blessed beyond measure, you just have to look for and find the ways in which you're blessed. When you do, God's presence in your life will become so tangible that joy will be the only emotion you can feel and express. I dare you to start counting. C'mon what are you waiting for? Joy awaits! Bless you guys today.
