At this very moment, as I am pondering the verse for today, it is pouring down rain outside. It's chilly, windy, probably one of the gloomiest days we've had in a while. I just want to curl up with many blankets, lie down in front of the t.v. and watch movies like "You've Got Mail" and "Princess Bride" over and over. I don't want to face my day, I want to avoid it. I want all my responsibilities to leave me alone until the gloom of the day is over. Motivation and energy do not exist. Do you ever get like? I'm sure I'm not alone. It's so hard to rise above and push through a day like today.
In the same way, it's hard to rise above life's difficulties such as illness, rejection, loss of a friend or loved one, and loneliness- even anxiety caused by high expectations from school, parents, job, and decisions for your future are difficult to bear. These storms of life come at us, sometimes with no warning- with gloomy days where you don't want to do anything. Where is the joy in that?
In light of all the Bible translations out there- I'd like to paraphrase today's verse, combining the Amplified Version and the NIV-
"When I was upset and beside myself, your comfort brought joy to my soul."
Whose comfort? God's comfort brought joy.
Not a boyfriends comfort, not a best friends comfort, shopping didn't bring comfort, eating didn't bring comfort, video games didn't bring comfort, the Internet didn't bring comfort, " ...GOD'S COMFORT brought joy."
Sometimes you don't realize that only God can bring real joy until all else fails you.
[[side note]]
Joy comes from God- it's eternal, pure, and selfless. Happiness is what the world gives- it's temporary and conditional. You have to work toward happiness, joy comes automatically when you have enough faith in God.
The Bible tells us that storms or difficulties are a normal part of life, but we are to have joy in the midst of them(despite them, not because of them). That doesn't mean you deny or ignore the problems and pain. It also doesn't mean you pretend you aren't going through one of the hardest times of your life. Finding the joy of the Lord in the midst of your difficulty is done by putting your complete faith and trust in God that He will bring you through, knowing in your heart that He will not leave you alone and will always love you- then joy will come as a result of that trust, abundant joy, MORE JOY!
How do you get that kind of confidence? By getting to know God more. The darker the days, the more you need to spend time with Him- in prayer, studying the Bible, and worship. When you do- He will replace your sadness with joy!!
So, if you are experiencing one of life's storms right now, press in and call on the comfort and joy of the Lord- He won't let you down!! Think of the example you will set for those around you as they question the confidence and joy you have during such a difficult time in your life.
love you and hope your weekend is great!!
Pam S.
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