When Joy is Scarce

You satisfy me more than the richest feast.
I will praise you with songs of joy.
. . .
Because you are my helper,
I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings.
Psalm 63:5,7 NLT*

Joy has been scarce in my heart lately, and I’ve felt more like David’s “parched and weary land.”

These two verses from Psalm 63 are my antidote, if I can let my mind and spirit truly believe them.

God satisfies. He is enough, and abundantly more than enough. That negates the joy-drain of discontent. I need to practice intentional gratitude, not just for His gifts but for who He is.

God helps. He is our ever-present helper and sustainer, and His strong hand holds us securely.

That truth eliminates anxiety, if I really believe it.

God who is all that I need, I believe. Help my unbelief. Help me realize, accept and rely on the truth of who You are and what that means in my life. Help me live confident and secure in You, aware of the many ways You satisfy and delight. 

God used the Newsboys’ song, “The Letter,” to challenge me about believing what He says

*New Living Translation (NLT)Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

4 thoughts on “When Joy is Scarce

  1. gladwellmusau

    Janet,
    Believe me…that cloud havoring over you will soon clear. The sun will shine again. May the Lord grant your his abundant grace and love to you and yours. Its my prayer to you and for you!

    Smile!

    Reply
  2. Mary Waind

    I’m doing a duet with you, Janet, singing, “Father, help my unbelief.” Your Word IS true. But I do have joy and you can dip a large bucket into the wells of salvation for free. Isaiah 12:3

    Reply
    1. Janet Sketchley

      We can dip large buckets for free… love this. Mary, you emanate joy, and that’s a testimony to God’s faithfulness. I think my full prayer is “help me remember and consciously believe what I know is true.”

      Reply

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