.jpg)
“God’s acquaintance is not made hurriedly.”
E.M. Bounds
"You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore." Psalm 16:11
Joy to the world! The Lord is come! The Psalmist writes that in the Lord's presence is fullness of joy! Not skimpy, not half-hearted, but full, rich, over-flowing joy! I struggle with that sometimes - well, actually, a lot. I wait to "feel" joyful and it feels elusive, always just out of reach or around the corner. If I'm truly honest, it is usually affected by circumstances and situations around me. That's why this reminder that it is in the Lord's presence that we find fullness of joy is so precious. I shared last week in the Advent reflection space that I was asking God for a specific promise to hang on to for a specific situation - like a special verse. I felt the Holy Spirit say - "I already gave you one." Hmmm....what is it? The Holy Spirit reminded me: "Never will I leave you or forsake you. That is all you need to know."
OK, then. In His presence is fullness of joy. That's all I need.
Praise God that He can fill us with an abiding joy in His presence.
Pray that God would show us how to be joyful people in the midst of struggle and pain.
Pray that the Holy Spirit will increase our faith and that we would overflow with joy.
Pray that God would allow CEC to be known as a place of joy and refreshment for all who come through our doors.
Ask God for specific ways that you can encourage others through your joy and gratefulness to God.
Let's look with expectation for answers that God provides in these final days of 2019!
Pastor Karen
Comments