For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all….(2 Cor 4:17).
Beloved, there is hope. It comes in a new song from your Father into your heart. I get it, the journey you’ve walked has come with its fair share of troubles, but your Heavenly Father meets you, daily to offer you the joy of His presence. Until we are surrounded with the joy of His presence, we will become encapsulated by all our burdens.
His grace comes knocking to every heart that wishes to receive mercy. It’s not that His grace is only available for those who get it right every time. No, it is free and available for everyone who would daily call on His name. You see, it’s the name of Jesus that fills our hearts to overflowing and when we are bubbling over with His love, we are the aroma of Christ to everyone we meet.
I’ve allowed the enemy to suck out my joy and fill me instead with anger, bitterness and resentment. All of these make for an unhealthy dose of sin in my heart and mind. Yet, there is joy, often found by walking in obedience with God as we pursue reconciliation and right thinking.
I think I’m finding that our joy with God often parallels the joy that we have in life towards other people. Especially towards those who have hurt us. Maybe my life is lacking joy with God because my heart is lacking in joy towards people? Yep, I think that’s true. I see it at work, because I see how quickly my heart can run towards hurt feelings or anger towards those who have slighted me. Yet, there is joy for me today, at the Lord’s fingertips as I seek to reconcile offenses and restore relationships. This is the call of God, not to wait for others to move towards us, but instead, to be peacemaker in His name.
Father, I want to live in your joy. It is available for me today. Help me now to walk in the fulness of grace and mercy for my life. I want to be led by your hand. May my heart be filled with the joy of seeking reconciliation, in Jesus name, Amen.
Heather Quiroz 