Inspire

It’s hard to believe we have made it to Term 4. I hope that all families had a chance over the school holidays to rest, unwind and find time to fill your days with joy. During my break, I wanted to focus on filling my days with the things that bring me joy - I enjoyed catching up with friends, having a coffee that didn’t go cold, binge watching TV series, reading the 3 books I had selected leading up to the holidays and enjoying the beautiful weather we were gifted. 

This following is from Today Devotional called ‘The Source of Joy:

The desire to have joy and be happy is universal. It is one of the deepest desires of the human heart. But happiness often seems elusive. Surprisingly our Bible passage today offers the hope of happiness, joy, and peace in all times, places, and situations. The Psalm says, “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”

The question, then, is “How do we ‘take delight in the Lord’?” First of all, we need a right relationship with God—and this is offered freely to us through faith in Jesus. And then we can focus on the full life we are called to in Christ and how we can begin living that way here and now.

Thinking highly of God the Father, who loves us and sent his Son to save us while we were still his enemies is a start (Romans 5:8-11). Focusing on the Savior, who redeemed us and has prepared the way for us to spend eternity with him and each other in perfect joy, is also crucial. And walking with the Spirit, who guides and comforts us each day, will lead to lasting joy, happiness, and contentment.

Some things in this world bring fleeting joy. But all those things break down, wear out, get stolen, rust, burn up, or betray us and ultimately let us down. When we “take delight in the Lord,” however, the Spirit produces the lasting fruit of joy in our lives.

Giver of every good gift, we thank you for the promise of giving us the desires of our hearts when we delight in you! Amen.

As the end of the year nears, and the busyness of life picks up I hope everyone can find time each week with something that brings you joy – in whatever form that looks like! 

Submitted by Tayla Sheahan