In His Presence
What brings joy to your life? Our culture seems captivated with the pursuit of finding happiness and joy in life. The Declaration of Independence subscribes to the notion that as humans our unalienable right is to pursue life, liberty, and happiness. Television commercials promise happiness stemming from new cars, cold beer, or the latest cure-all to rid you of fungus under your toenails or grow hair on your head. Then there is the age-old idea that you must keep up with the Jones’ to get more money, or a bigger house, or other must-haves to bring happiness and joy.
Like Christmas morning, these things only provide momentary happiness and joy as the cares of life once again flood our reality. However, a joy exists that transcends the cares of life providing both a sense of well being and strength. This joy comes from the presence of the Lord. The Psalmist wrote, “In his presence is fullness of joy and at his right hand are pleasures forever more” (Psalms 16:11).
In the presence of the Lord you will find the true joy and real happiness for which you are searching. The “fullness of joy” speaks of how you feel after a good meal; satisfied, filled, content, and pleased. The joy we find in the presence of the Lord is not a temporary fix for an eternal hunger; it is satisfying and fulfilling providing you with a sense of peace and strength to sustain you in the midst of every trial. Live in the presence of the Lord and experience the joy and happiness that only God can provide.
God bless,
Pastor Gary
