In Galatians 5:22-23, the apostle Paul speaks about the fruit of the Spirit. Out of those fruits mentioned, the one that stands out to me is joy. If there is one emotion that we are lacking is joy. How is this the case? People are finding temporary joy in other things and other people. Joy comes from God. The word “joy” has been used as an acronym from time to time. One of those acronyms is used like this: Jesus, Others, Yourself. This is important for us to remember because over the course of time, we have been placing ourselves before everyone else. If we are going to be servants for God, then we need to put aside our egos and quit boosting ourselves up and start thinking about others.
In today’s passage, the Psalmist is acknowledging how we ought to be more joyful when we are in alignment with Him. When we follow His instructions and search for Him and seek after Him, we will begin to look at things differently. The first thing that we need to do is to be in that place of surrender and opening our hearts to inviting Him in and live within us.
Psalm 119:1-8 (NLT Translation)
Aleph
1
Joyful are people of integrity,
who follow the instructions of the Lord.
2
Joyful are those who obey his laws
and search for him with all their hearts.
3
They do not compromise with evil,
and they walk only in his paths.
4
You have charged us
to keep your commandments carefully.
5
Oh, that my actions would consistently
reflect your decrees!
6
Then I will not be ashamed
when I compare my life with your commands.
7
As I learn your righteous regulations,
I will thank you by living as I should!
8
I will obey your decrees.
Please don’t give up on me!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, help us to be more joyful in life. Help us to live in the present rather than always thinking about the past or the future. We know that there are going to be times where we have to make a change, but help us to not cave into fear but rather embrace what You have in store for us. You know what is best for us. Help us to receive Your instructions with an open heart and an open mind. In Jesus name, amen.