Monday, April 13, 2009

Pleasures and Fullness of Joy

Boy is it easy to get bogged down by the negative happenings we see all around us! I am reminded of the story in Matthew 14; when Jesus was walking on water, and Peter asked if he could do it too. Jesus said "Come on!". So he stepped out of the boat and started walking towards Jesus with his eyes on Jesus.

vs 30 But when he noticed how strong the wind was, he became afraid and started to sink. He shouted, "Lord, save me!" 31 Immediately, Jesus reached out, caught hold of him, and said, "You have so little faith! Why did you doubt?"

I feel like sometimes I have "So little faith." The problem is that I have taken my eyes and focus off Jesus. When I return to His presence I am filled with peace that only He can provide in such a storm.

- He makes known to me the next step on my "Path of life."
- He gives me "Complete joy" that cannot be understood in human terms because it does not make sense with my circumstances.
- He gives me sweet "Pleasures by His side."

Psalm 16:11 (NAS) You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.

Psalm 16:11 (GWT) You make the path of life known to me. Complete joy is in your presence. Pleasures are by your side forever.

Stop - Doubting, and allowing my circumstances to dictate my state of mind.

Know - When I am in God's presence the peace, love, joy and pleasures He provides can transcend my circumstances.

Do - Run to His presence when I need these things. Re-align my focus on Him.