Thought for the Day. #104

Joy comes in the Morning

Psalm 30:4-5 (New American Standard Bible)

4 Sing praise to the LORD, you His godly ones, and give thanks to His holy name.

5 For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for a lifetime; Weeping may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning.

Have you felt deserted by God? Is your heartache more than you can bear? We may feel that God has dealt harshly with us, that He has allowed more than we can bear to come upon us. Life brings pain and discouragement to us all.

Cheer up! Rejoice! Though adversity may seem so painful as it settles in upon us, we are often molded and strengthened by its cruel pressure. Just as the raging waters of the flood wear the rocks smooth and shiny, the buffeting trials polish us into people of strong faith and power. These adversities mold us into Christ like character and purity.

David learned that these times are very temporary. They soon will pass. Though we may weep for the night when all seems dark and hopeless, God will continue pouring out his favor upon us. The trial of the moment will fade and the beauty of his enduring comfort and love will soon flood us with joy. We will become confident in his love and grace. Our faith will become strong and we shall ride on his wings of victory with the shout of a conquering warrior.

Let your heartache be eased by His outstretched arm of compassion. Our Lord and redeemer, Jesus the Christ, has walked this path before us. He knows our pain. Surely his strength and comfort are extended to each of us in the time of need.

Be encouraged to pray “O God, you know my heart and my pain, help me to yield myself to your purpose. I trust you to keep me from more than I can bear. I rejoice in you. You are faithful to lead me into abundant joy as I travel this path in your strength. I know that through it all, I shall become more like you.

Thank you, Father, for assurance that your mercy will sustain me and your joy will come quickly.”