Some days it seems like finding joy can be an illusion to me. I see others enjoying a dreamy kind of life (where nothing ever goes wrong and no one even seems to have a bad thought). I think to myself, what a wonderful life they must have. Before long, you may even hear me humming the lyrics to Louis Armstrong’s song “What a Wonderful Life” (in an effort to fake it till I make it). Seriously, I think it is a daily fight to be joyful. But, we must engage in that fight to truly live a joy-filled life.
I was recently reminded of some foundational truths to help bring joy into my life (from Proverbs 8:34), “Joyful are those who listen to me, watching for me daily at my gates, waiting for me outside my home!”
There it is, don’t miss it! Listening, watching, and waiting on God. Easy to say or write, but difficult to actually do. Listening is hard, watching takes concentration, and waiting is oftentimes just not my style. Do you know what I mean? I am often distracted even when I’m praising God or praying to Him.
I must make a conscious effort to silence the noise in my life and my mind and simply listen to God. It requires me to focus on His Word and take a listening position in my prayers. Not a “to-do” list for God, but a “get-to-do” list for me, from God. I need to watch daily for guidance, and look to see where God is at work in my life and in the lives of others around me. Not simply to observe and be in awe of Him, but look to join Him in what He is doing. And yes, this often includes waiting — maybe the most excruciatingly beautiful, sanctifying, and satisfying of all. Be persistent in waiting for God. Allow His perfect timing to take over your schedule, even when it hurts. Especially when it’s not convenient.
God is very clear when He says: (my paraphrase) “Joyful are those who listen to me, by watching and waiting for me.”
Here’s a simple memory verse for all of us today: “Always be Joyful!” — 1 Thessalonians 5:16
Listening and waiting,
Mac
Posted in A Word from the Pastor