Online Devotions: Where Can I Find True Joy?

Sunday, January 10, 2016

Where Can I Find True Joy?

January 10 (Psalm 4:6-7)

There are many who say, “Who will show us some good? Lift up the light of your face upon us, O Lord!” You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound. (ESV)

It usually takes no more than the first new article of the day to have us crying out to God for something good. We could debate whether the world is truly getting worse or we are simply more aware of the problems thanks to modern communication, but either way, it is a rare moment when we do not feel crushed and overwhelmed by our circumstances.

Of course, most of us have a lot of options for feeling better. We have hobbies we enjoy, books to read, apps to play, friends to see, movies to watch, music to listen to, and sports to play. Distraction from the pain and distress of life is a click away, and if the Internet is down or a friend is not home, there is always something else we can try. And so life becomes an endless seeking after that something else, but the unending search itself becomes a burden. Perhaps it is then that we reach for something stronger, something darker.

The simple fact is that God has already placed more joy in our hearts than we can fully savor in this world. He lives within us and speaks to us, gently and sweetly, if only we would stop grasping for the clashing brass gongs of distraction and listen. Do you think you can set all that other…stuff…aside for a few moments and let God reveal the joy He has given you?

Father, my search to find things to ease the pain of life is actually a display of ingratitude. Rather than be content with what You have given and find joy in Your presence, I run after mere things and experiences. Forgive me for treating the gift of Your joy with such contempt and restore to me my sense of satisfaction in You. In the name of Jesus, amen.

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History of Online Devotions

In January of 1999, I began the Online Devotions with the teens of the church we were attending. Each week they would receive a verse of Scripture, a short reflection, and a prayer. Over the years others subscribed to this email list, and soon the Online Devotions were going out to people across the country and beyond.

In 2007 I published in book format a collection called Desert Days: Forty Devotions for Men.

After suggestions from several readers, I launched in 2010 the Online Devotions blog. Devotions are still available each week by email, and if you would like to subscribe, please indicate so in the comment box.

As I have always said, if one of these devotions touches you, you can be sure it was from God. If one leaves you flat, then there was too much of me in it.