"In Your presence is fullness of joy."
Psalm 16:11
Her life had become routine and meaningless. That can happen to any of us. There was a time when she felt the joy of living, but no more. Over the months she became more and more depressed. She had to do something. No longer could she go on this way. She decided to make an appointment to see her pastor. She explained to him, "I don't know what's wrong with me. I hate to admit it, but I've lost the joy of living."
The pastor assured her that it was God's will for her to have joy in life. He shared our verse for today. The pastor said, "In my life, joy for living comes from experiencing the presence of the Lord. I encourage you to enjoy God's presence through prayer, worship and praise."
Fullness of joy comes from the presence of the Lord. Oh yes, I know, God is omnipresent. He is everywhere all the time. But the psalmist is talking about coming into the presence of the Lord through worship and praise. This is often done through music. Remember, all the psalms were written to be sung. The song of the Lord is an excellent way to focus on His presence in our lives.
I remember a time when I was experiencing what I call the "blahs." Alone at home, I decided to put a video tape of Christian music on my television. I enjoyed hearing others sing, and it wasn't long until I was singing with them. The presence of the Lord was real to me. Joy came to my heart. I was involved in worship through the presence of God. He renewed my strength and filled me with joy. God wants us to enjoy His presence. He is the joy of life.
Father, we worship in the joy of Your presence.
