Pain to PromiseSample

The Promise of Joy

Even in our brokenness, God can bring us joy. David was notorious for being bold enough to ask God for whatever he wanted, especially when he was in pain. (Psa. 51:8)

David was indeed a flawed human, but he firmly believed in the God who brings joy to our sufferings. Because David counted on God to get him out of his messes, The Lord was always faithful to him who believed and came to Him in humility. (Mark 9:23, Isa. 29:19)

Joy can be had quickly by ushering the presence of the Holy Spirit into moments of need. We are promised fullness of joy by entering into God's throne of grace (Psalm 16:11). It can be had by a simple prayer of mere asking and waiting on Him to wash over us. Followers of Jesus are redeemed and have every reason to look for and obtain joy at every corner, no matter our situation or circumstance. We can be utterly shattered yet still feel joy from our hope in Christ.

Remember the old song, "Count Your Many Blessings?" I encourage you now to name them...one by one! The more we attempt to do this, the more joy will infiltrate our hearts and minds. It works wonders! Habakkuk 3 shows us how important it is to praise through our sufferings. God inhabits the praises of His children! (Psalm 22:3).

Oftentimes, I have to pray Psalm 51:12 over myself aloud to restore joy in the area where I am suffering. God never fails to permit me His will by quoting back to Him His precious Words.

Are you audibly giving back to God, His promises for you out of His Word? Can you start this habit today? How many blessings can you name today that God has bestowed upon your life and of those you care about?

PRAYER

Lord, Your very Name evokes joy. Name Above All Names: Jesus Christ, I ask that You help me by restoring the joy of Your salvation to me on days I am suffering and feeling the weight of what I currently bear. You alone are my greatest source of all understanding, companionship, comfort, hope, beauty, strength, growth, and healing. I give You my offering of praise right now and always.

In Jesus' Name, I pray. Amen.