There are times you may say, there is nothing joyful about a particular situation. However, if you take a step back and look deeper, God can restore your joy. We have all had situations, moments, and deep regret that have turned our joy to sorrow. It is what you and I do in those circumstances that determine our attitude and the direction we take. Psalm 63 was written by David while in a wilderness experience; a position of disfavor. It was during a time when David was separated from the sanctuary in Jerusalem, but he still cultivated fellowship with God, found delight in Him, and experienced joy. Joyful living comes when you look to Him and take your eyes off your disappointment to focus on what He wants to teach you through the experience.
Three steps to seeking joy from Psalm 63.
- Earnestly seek God
O God, You are my God; I shall seek You earnestly; My soul thirsts for You, my flesh yearns for You, In a dry and weary land where there is no water. Thus I have seen You in the sanctuary, To see Your power and Your glory. (vs 1-2)
In the Hebrew, earnestly means to seek early, diligently, and at bedtimes. You and I would be wise to seek Him when we rise and when we lay our head down at night; desire a deep longing to read His word, so you will hear His still small voice. And then when you enter this sanctuary place, this place of quiet rest, you will experience joy unspeakable and praise will come from your lips.
- Find satisfaction in God
Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, My lips will praise You. So I will bless You as long as I live; I will lift up my hands in Your name. My soul is satisfied as with [marrow and fatness, And my mouth offers praises with joyful lips. (vs 3-5)
In verse one, we hear David’s heart cry, “My soul thirsts for You, my flesh yearns for You,” and now in verse five he says, “My soul is satisfied as with marrow and fatness.” Why is his soul satisfied? His soul is satisfied because God quenched his thirst with His presence. In whatever situation you find yourself, if you will earnestly seek Him, He will disclose Himself to you. God will draw near to those who draw near to Him (James 4:8). Joy will come when you no longer fear man, but find satisfaction in God’s view of you – loved, forgiven, and chosen.
- Remember all He has done
When I remember You on my bed, I meditate on You in the night watches, For You have been my help, And in the shadow of Your wings I sing for joy. My soul clings to You; Your right hand upholds me. (vs 6-8)
Each night as you reflect on your day, be grateful for: God’s love for you, His protective hand, and helpful guidance. If you implement this daily exercise, joy will start to overshadow your hurts and disappointments. Joy will penetrate your heart and bring things into clearer focus.
Joy is a choice you and I will need to be deliberate about making. No one can choose joy for you. . .only you get to make the decision to be joyful in any situation.
Those who look to him for help will be radiant with joy; no shadow of shame will darken their faces.
Psalm 34:5
Journeying with Him,