Christianity Oasis Forum

[Lani]

Psalms 16:1-11
1 Preserve me, O God: for in thee do I put my trust.
2 O my soul, thou hast said unto the LORD, Thou art my Lord: my goodness extendeth not to thee;
3 But to the saints that are in the earth, and to the excellent, in whom is all my delight.
4 Their sorrows shall be multiplied that hasten after another god: their drink offerings of blood will I not offer, nor take up their names into my lips.
5 The LORD is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup: thou maintainest my lot.
6 The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yea, I have a goodly heritage.
7 I will bless the LORD, who hath given me counsel: my reins also instruct me in the night seasons.
8 I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.
9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope.
10 For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.
11 Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.


[LORD,] you have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. Psalm 16:11 (NIV)



I walked our dog, Pumpkin, to the park on a cold, winter evening. The snow was fresh and the air frigid. Pumpkin, who is part Husky, loves winter. I removed her leash to allow her to run. I knew she found unbridled joy playing in the snow. She ran briskly and kicked up a shower of white flakes. She rolled in the snow, rubbing her back. She frolicked in circles around me. She pranced home with her head high and bushy tail wagging with gladness. I was uplifted to see her so jubilant.

Our divine Master wants to lead us to places of delight just as I desire to take my dog where she finds joy. God’s commands are given to guide us to genuine fulfillment. I am aware of Pumpkin’s unique needs and what makes her happy. How much more does God know what is for our lasting good?

The promise of our Lord in John 15:11 declares his intention for us: “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” When we live by God’s counsel to forgive, to be generous, and to give thanks, we can be refreshed with new joy.


Prayer: God of our joy, we thank you for the joy we find when we walk with you in trust and obedience. Amen.

Prayer Focus of Day: Those who yearn for joy.

Thought for the Day: God’s way is a way of joy.

Story shared by: C. Rawley (MO)
Source: Upper Room Daily Devotional: 11/18/11

[ServeGod]

SO Loved it. Thanks for posting it Lani, this really touched a spot.

[Angel of Hope]

I really enjoyed reading this post, it shows the simple pleasures of joy!!! Even the animals enjoy God's nature and have joy. Thanks for sharing. Love Angel of Hope