“Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the Lord.”-Psalm 119:1
Everyone desires happiness. It’s a reality. We’re all looking for that which will bring joy to our souls. This is true because God designed us this way. Sadly, so many never find the true, lasting happiness we are all freely offered. A.W. Tozer insightfully once said, “Man is bored because he is too big to be happy with that which sin is giving him.” Sin certainly is very enticing, but it never ultimately satisfies. It leaves us wanting more, looking for something to fulfill. C.S. Lewis described it this way, “We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.”
God reminds us straightforwardly in Psalm 119:1, where authentic joy is found. Let’s read it again: “Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the Lord.” The word used for Joyful here is also accurately translated, "Happy." The Lord is making it as plain as day! Happiness is found in…get ready for it…in doing right, living a blameless life, and in following God’s directions. His instructions are always good, ever for our good, and for our joy! God knows a lot about joy too. He created it! In His unfathomable kindness, He wants us to have the true happiness that we long for. Therefore, He gives us instructions that lead to Himself and lead toward what He knows will provide lasting joy.
Do we not all long for deep happiness? Of course we do. God wants us to have it too! But, it isn’t found in everything the world says will give it. God knows this. He wants us to comprehend this as well. Real joy is found in living a life of integrity, a life of no compromise in what is right. Happiness is received in walking according to God’s instructions for us. With that said, we need to remember that committing ourselves to the joy that is found in God through a life of integrity and following His ways won't be easy. Our flesh will fight against us and so will the deceiver, Satan. We'll forget and stumble at times. We will be tempted to try everything else to bring us happiness. Nevertheless, the battle is worth it. His joy awaits us! So, with child-like faith and through Christ alone who gives us strength, may we trust God fully, follow His ways, and be joyful.
Godspeed, friends!
-Scott