Lasting Joy
In 2014, residents of a village in Norway erected a traffic sign that encouraged people crossing the street to do so in a silly manner. The intent was to bring a few moments of humor—for “silly walkers” and onlookers alike—to brighten one another’s days. These brief glimpses of silliness were a momentary encouragement to downcast spirits.
The Bible acknowledges that we’ll have seasons of difficulty and hardship, causing us to feel demoralized and sad. The book of Lamentations and many psalms give voice to such pain. Yet the Scriptures also point us to what can bring us lasting joy in all circumstances: the presence of God. David penned the words of Psalm 16 with an eye to an eternal future with Him. Those of us alive today—after the death and resurrection of Jesus—know God’s presence even now through the Holy Spirit.
Though they may only last a short time, humor and levity can lift our spirits in times of difficulty. However, to experience the lasting joy that sustains us through the most painful seasons of our lives, we must “take refuge” in God (v. 1) who counsels and instructs us (v. 7). He’ll never abandon us; instead, He’ll “make known to [us] the path of life” and “fill [us] with joy” (v. 11).
By Kirsten Holmberg - Bread Ministries
Psalm 16 (NIV)
A miktam of David.
1 Keep me safe, my God,
for in you I take refuge.
2 I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord;
apart from you I have no good thing.”
3 I say of the holy people who are in the land,
“They are the noble ones in whom is all my delight.”
4 Those who run after other gods will suffer more and more.
I will not pour out libations of blood to such gods
or take up their names on my lips.
5 Lord, you alone are my portion and my cup;
you make my lot secure.
6 The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
surely I have a delightful inheritance.
7 I will praise the Lord, who counsels me;
even at night my heart instructs me.
8 I keep my eyes always on the Lord.
With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.
9 Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices;
my body also will rest secure,
10 because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead,
nor will you let your faithful one see decay.
11 You make known to me the path of life;
you will fill me with joy in your presence,
with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
