5 Minute Read
Today’s Bible Reading:
Leviticus 15:1-16:28
Mark 7:1-23
Psalm 40:11-17
Proverbs 10:13-14
Today’s Bible Verse(s):
Psalm 40:16 (NLT): “But may all who search for you be filled with joy and gladness in you. May those who love your salvation repeatedly shout, ‘The LORD is great!’”
Reflections on Today’s Bible Verse(s):
There is one thing that is common among virtually all people groups, in all places, at all times – the desire to be happy. We love it when our hearts are filled with happiness, when our minds are experiencing a positive sense of well-being.
The Bible isn’t silent on this subject. God recognizes that we have a craving to be happy. So, He actually commands us to be happy (see Philippians 4:4; Psalm 37:4; etc.).
But, commanding us to be happy would be impossible if there was nothing to make us happy. So what makes us happy?
There are plenty of secondary things that can bring a follower of Jesus happiness, such as time with family, gazing at a clear night sky, watching a funny movie, and holding a newborn child. All of these things and more are good. We should find delight in them.
But, there is something primary, something that we should long to enjoy much more than all of the secondary things. That “something” is a person – God.
Just listen to the verse for the day again:
Psalm 40:16 “But may all who search for you be filled with joy and gladness in you. May those who love your salvation repeatedly shout, ‘The LORD is great!’”
The Psalmist would have us realize that our desire for joy and gladness can be met as we seek the Lord and find Him. If we are not experiencing this kind of happiness in our current relationship with the Lord, then there is more to be enjoyed, friend. There is much that we are missing out on.
So spend time in your Bible today but don’t just read it – look for what God is specifically saying to you. Spend time in prayer but recognize that if you are “confessed up,” then your prayer is reaching the very throne room of Heaven. Live this day with a conscious awareness that Jesus is walking through it with you, each step of the way. Enjoy Him today!
“You have made us for yourself, and our hearts are restless, until they can find rest in you.” – St. Augustine
Matt Ellis is the pastor of First Baptist Church in Polk City, Florida (fbcpolkcity.com). His latest book is God’s Grace in the Real World. Connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.
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