The Joy of the Lord

How many people can you name who truly enjoy life? The Bible is full of promptings to choose joy. Paul wrote: “Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice!” (Phil 4:4). But why do we need to continuously choose it? Solomon tackled this question seven times in Ecclesiastes, advising us to choose a joyful life in spite of suffering (Eccl 2:24-25; 3:13, 22; 5:18-20; 8:15; 9:7; 11:9-10). In each case, he concluded that it’s possible to enjoy God’s blessing without denying or trivializing life’s hardships.

Some people say life on earth is something that must be endured because this world is not our home; we’re just passing through. These folks have low expectations. They may even feel guilty of happy, carefree days. Those on the opposite extreme tend to focus on the here and now, eager to do anything that feels good at the moment with no consideration for eternal things. But godly wisdom offers a better sense of balance.

When David and Nancy Guthrie’s daughter Hope was born with Zellweger syndrome (a congenital disorder that is often fatal within six months), they faced a choice: They could choose despair, or they could celebrate her short life with God’s help and the support of their faith community. They could mourn their dreams for her or accept that Hope had been uniquely created by God. David and Nancy submitted their child to God’s will and planned their lives around Hope’s. They invited family and friends to join them in monthly birthday parties, knowing there would never be annual parties. They celebrated the gift God had placed in their care for a season. When fear threatened to overwhelm them, they discovered that God’s presence is always enough.

Despite the trials of life, we can enjoy the blessings and gifts that come from the hand of God (3:13). Biblical enjoyment seeks a balance in all things, especially in commonplace, routine experiences. Whatever the circumstance, our greatest elation will be found in our relationship with God. “You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever” (Ps 16:11).