You will make known to me the path of life; in your presence is fullness of joy; in your right hand there are pleasures forever. Psalm 16:11 LSB
We live in a world where we see a lot of chaos all around us. There are times when I just want to enter my own little sanctuary and find rest and peace and joy. I have tried to create a space in my home where I can find these things. I have come to realize, however, that it’s not a location or a space, but it’s in Jesus Christ where I find rest and peace and joy.
In His presence, no matter where I may be physically, I can find joy. I have come to learn that life is a struggle. We all know this, and we all experience it in our day to day lives. Often times, it’s our perspective that makes the difference in how we respond to or handle the tough times.
Our Scripture passage tells us that in His presence, we will find abundant joy. In Isaiah chapter 35, it speaks of the joy of the redeemed. It speaks of the Highway of Holiness in verse 8. In verse 10, it says, “And the redeemed of Yahweh will return and come with joyful shouting to Zion, with everlasting gladness upon their heads. They will attain delight and gladness and sorrow and sighing will flee away.”
When we go through trying times, we don’t always know why we are experiencing such difficulties, but we should always remember God has a reason for it. Remember Romans 8:28 which says, “All things work for the good of those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose.”
Many times, in the Bible God tells us not to fear and promises to be with us wherever we go. We can find peace in His presence. We are told in Philippians 4:6-7 to be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
If you need peace go to God and He will give you peace. Our joy is also found in His presence, and He will give it abundantly. And we are told in Matthew 11:28-30 that we can find rest in Him. Jesus said, “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”
We are told in 2 Timothy 3:1-6 that men will be arrogant, selfish and evil in the last days. We are told to avoid these types of people. I truly believe we will only see evil increase as the days get closer. I’m not saying this to scare you, I’m saying this to let you know that we have a refuge and a fortress in our Lord Jesus Christ. We are told in Psalm 91:1-2, “He who abides in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to Yahweh, ‘My refuge and my fortress, My God in whom I trust!'”
I’ve got good news and bad news. I always like to get the bad news first and the bad news is this world is unlikely to get any better. It is more likely to continue to get worse. We can choose to be a part of the problem, or we can trust in the solution.
It is likely that we will grow more frustrated and more weary dealing with the trials and tribulations we face on this earth. This is why I want you to understand where you can find peace, joy and rest. We find these things in the presence of our Lord and Savior.
Surrender to Him, trust in Him. Choose to reside in the fortress that is Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.
Have a great day!