The Fullness of Joy

Be Strong, Be Well — Monday, November 16, 2020

“You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore” (Psalm 16:11).

The man after God’s own heart, knew the path that leads to God is full of joy and pleasures for this life and forever. David was making a spiritual observation.

He knew life is not void of trying times and circumstances that bring sorrow and frustration. But for those walking on the path leading to God have an inner joy and satisfaction that overrule those dark times.

Paul was a great example of this truth. While sitting between Roman guards, under house arrest, facing his own execution, he wrote several letters to churches and the people he loved dearly. His message was joy, peace, and hope.

These words are abundant throughout his prison epistles of Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians. Just in the Book of Philippians alone, Paul makes reference to joy or rejoicing fourteen times. Paul’s attitude in his stressful situation is unmistakable. He intended to make the best of his circumstances and find joy!

There is no doubt Paul thought of Jesus’ example in Hebrews 12:2. “Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

Everyone is dealing with something. Some are being challenged more than others. We may have to take our turn with more severe circumstances soon enough. But we all are Christians who have an inner joy that rises above all of these things. We’re on the path God has made for us. In His presence there is fullness of joy. At His right hand are pleasures forevermore! —Chris