FaithWalkDaily January 21, 2009Psalms 4:7 You have filled my heart with greater joy than when the grain and new wine abound.
Translated to language I can relate to, that reads like: You bring me more joy than the perfect conditions that create a flawless photograph.
As I began to meditate on this verse, the doorbell rang. The next thirty minutes were spent dealing with a delivery that wasn't right.
We human beings are subject to mistakes. Last week a weary over-worked delivery driver dumped all her problems on me as I did my best to listen and bring a little cheer to her situation (she wasn't receptive.) This week I had a sweet driver and a messed up order.
It took me several minutes to calm down enough to call the company so I could straighten things out without being a jerk to the person on the phone. Being in control of my emotions is a blessing that brings sweet satisfaction.
This is a new concept for me. The ability to deal with people in a Christ-like way comes as a result of stopping to pray, forgive, and approach the situation with grace. It only happens when I'm daily in God's word, connected to the One who makes no mistakes.
When the light is perfect, the weather cooperates, and the waterfall roars into a richly hued lake, it's like all the pieces of the puzzle fit perfectly and for that moment I'm happy. How wonderful to know that true joy is not found in the things of this world, which often fail to meet our expectations.
My real joy is in the Lord, who fills my heart with greater joy than when the conditions, the subject and the backdrop all come together in perfect harmony for the camera lens.
O Lord, You have filled my heart with greater joy than when the grain and new wine abound. May I be a willing vessel to pour out your grace for others, to be salt and light in a weary, sin-filled world. In Jesus' name, amen.
