“…for the joy of the Lord is your strength!” – Neh 8:10
Joy is one of those things we all want more of. Put your hand up if you DON'T want more…haha…see?! Western society is geared towards constant joy, higher highs and minimising the lows. Ever noticed how when you really really really desire something, you dream about and imagine how fulfilling it will be once it's in your possession. Then, after you've attained it, it's not usually long until the ‘sparkle' wears off. That fulfilment is no longer where you imagined it to take you so the quest for the next ‘joy-thing' begins and once again you imagine how fulfilling and amazing it will be once it's yours. And the cycle goes on infinitely! Ps 16:11 says “…In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” – the only place we can find complete and full joy is in His presence. OK so you've got that…”but how on earth can I access His presence?” You ask…Ps 100:4 gives us a clue: “enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise” – Ah-ha!!! It's the attitude of gratitude that exposes us to His presence…it unlocks it! His presence brings joy and Neh 8:10 teaches us that His joy brings strength! Whenever you are feeling weak, inadequate and hopeless remember these equations: Thanksgiving + praise = His Presence. His presence = joy. Joy = strength! Do this and you'll always live with a complete and attractive sense of joy. We love you guys…be filled with His joy today! ?