Psalms Streak: A Daily Devotional in the PsalmsSample

The Joyful King

What is the difference between joy and happiness? How would you define those two words? One way to think about them is that happiness is a temporary emotion which comes and goes, but joy goes deeper. Joy isn’t dependent on circumstances. Joy is a condition of the heart. King David had many reasons to find joy in the strength of God. Perhaps the joy came from his victories in battle or the deliverance from his enemies. He personally experienced the mighty hand of God.

In this Psalm, David is recounting the numerous blessings the Lord has shown him. The strength and salvation of God came to David in response to both the desire of his heart and his spoken prayers (the request of his lips). It’s possible to have joy in difficult times. It’s possible to live with hope, trusting in the strength of God despite the chaos and darkness we witness in the world. Put words to the desires of your heart today. Speak to God about them, pray persistently, and delight in the joy of salvation. Follow the example of this joyful king, and rejoice in the strength God gives.

GO DEEP: Ask God to give you joy today. Give thanks to Him for His salvation and trust in the strength that He gives. Make a note of all of the blessings in your life and praise God for them.

BE BOLD: Who needs to hear this? Who could you share it with?