But now I am coming to you, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves.
John 17:13
Lord Jesus, my soul is overwhelmed today, knowing that Your joy is what fills my heart. The joy I get from the things of this world is so fleeting, like a temporary rush of emotion, filling, but only in the moment, leaving my soul longing for more. Yet Your joy is a steady stream of life bubbling up from within my soul. It overwhelms me. When I am exposed and laid bare in the eyes of man, it brings relief to my heart, removing the burden of needing to impress others from my soul. When I am confronted for the wrongs I have done and own up to my behaviors, it brings heartfelt contrition, removing the condemnation that weighs me down. When I have sinned against You or another and confess my errors, it brings tears of remorse, reminding me of the great price that was paid for my freedom. Lord, this day, when I reflect upon the wrong that I have done and still find the joy that You give, I cannot help but praise You! Thank You for joy when things are not the way they need to be or ought to be. Because it is in those moments that I am reminded of just how good You are and how much You love me. Your joy is indeed fulfilled in my heart. I love You Jesus and I am eternally grateful. Amen.