Joy in the Midst of Pain
Garrett Case,
Associate University Advancement Officer
December 14, 2023
“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.”
Psalm 16:11
For the Christian, we aren’t promised an easy life. In fact, it’s quite the opposite according to Jesus (John 15:20). What we are promised is when we give our life to Christ, that is when we truly begin to live (Matthew 16:25). In Psalm 16:11, David describes being in God’s presence with a fullness of joy – don’t miss that. Oftentimes it can be easy for us to get caught up in our stressful day-to-day lives and not recognize what the Lord provides to those who follow Him.
My grandmother was recently declared cancer-free after a year-long battle with pancreatic cancer, including many months of chemotherapy and radiation. Through it all her motto was consistent, “No matter what, God’s got me!” She has joy in the Lord regardless of the outcome of her situation, because of who He is.
My hope in this season is that you would truly know the joy of the Lord. Through whatever struggles you face, or challenges that arise, God brings true joy in every season as we walk alongside Him. In God’s presence, there is a fullness of joy beyond measure.
Here are some scriptures I pray will resonate with you today, this week, and the rest of this year:
“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”
Romans 12:12
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.”
Philippians 4:4
“Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.”
John 16:24
“For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.”
Psalm 30:5
“We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.”
Hebrews 12:2
