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In God’s presence is the fullness of joy! We may not feel joyful, yet being with God elevates our spirits to joy.

I had a conversation with my cousin this past week and she asked me, “Why are so many Christians miserable when God is so good?” I am not the spokesperson for all Christians nor do I want to be. Every person has a different journey.

I do know the Bible tells us over and over to rejoice!

Rejoice that your sins are forgiven.

Rejoice your names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.

Rejoice that you are God’s child.

Rejoice that you can come boldly before God’s throne of grace!

Rejoice that you are invited into a Kingdom that cannot be shaken.

Rejoice that heaven is your home.

Rejoice that you have been given every spiritual blessing in Christ.

Rejoice in tribulations that produce patience, character, and endurance in your life!

Rejoice because God loves you and invites you into relationship with Him.

Rejoice that you’ve been given the Holy Spirit; He’s fully God and empowering your life.

Rejoice that you don’t get what you deserve (death) and you receive what Jesus deserved (honor, a seat in heavenly places).

Rejoice that you are no longer under the law but under grace.

Rejoice that God is with you and for you!

Rejoice that Jesus defeated every enemy on the cross and rose with all power in His hands.

Part of the Christian walk is enjoying God; finding joy in who God is and cultivating relationship with Him.

Life is hard. Life can be overwhelming, painful, and tiring. The refreshment and joy comes from God. Jesus said, “Come to Me all who are weary and heavy laden; I will give you rest!”

Daily God is handing out His peace for our turmoil, His rest for our weariness, and His joy for our sorrow.

There are two of His promises in particular that bring great joy:

1. Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you!

2. Nothing can separate you from My love.

In the worst seasons of my life, God has been there. When no one else could be or wanted to be, God was there. We have had moments of laughter together. He’s the best thing that’s ever happened to my life. He’s faithful, generous, kind, truthful, creative, encouraging, compassionate, hopeful, and good! He’s the best listener and encourager. As I grow older with Him I’m even thankful for His correction. Being with God has brought more joy than anything in this world. I enjoy God; not what He gives, who He is. He is beyond amazing.

In the seasons of my life where I haven’t enjoyed God it’s been due to a lie I believed about Him, my lack of spending time with Him, my focus on myself or circumstances, and my striving (I must do x,y, z). The sweetest thing is simply to abide in Him.

My prayer for us:

Father I pray we’d enjoy being in relationship with You. Help us to rest in You, abide in You. May all the distractions of life be removed and joy flood our hearts. We are Your beloved! That’s worth celebrating. Help us to recall all Jesus paid for and seek first Your face. You are abounding joy. In Jesus powerful name, Amen!