Heavenly Father,
help me today not to seek joy in my circumstances, but in the very Source of joy itself—Your holy presence.
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4)
Lord, this is not a joy that comes from my accomplishments or favorable circumstances. It is a joy that is both a decision and a gift. A decision to fix my gaze on You, regardless of what surrounds me.
Let Your joy be my strength
I confess, at times I am weary and my heart is heavy. But Your Word promises me that the joy I find in You is not merely an emotion, but my fortress and my strength.
“…for the joy of the LORD is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10)
I know that I can only find the fullness of this joy in Your nearness, in Your holy presence. Not in searching for happiness in the world, but before Your face.
“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)
Thank you for inviting me to surrender all my worries, anxieties, and fears to You. Let me lay them before You through prayer and petition, with thanksgiving.
Your peace, which surpasses my understanding
Father, I ask for this peace. The peace that my mind cannot comprehend, yet my heart so deeply yearns for. The peace that guards my heart and my mind in Christ Jesus. Help me today to have a steadfast heart, focused on You.
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” (Isaiah 26:3)
Today, let not fear or anxiety reign in my heart, but Your peace. Help me to live at the fount of Your peace, grateful for the gift of salvation and for the fellowship into which You have called me.
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” (Colossians 3:15)
Let me be a light to those in darkness
Lord, I do not want to keep this joy and peace for myself. All around me are sorrowful hearts, so many people wandering in darkness, not knowing where to find help. Be their light. Come to them and let them know the joy of Your mercy.
“‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'” (John 8:12)
Thank you, Immanuel, God with us. Thank you that You are not a distant God, but You are near, here, with me. This promise is the anchor for my soul.
“…And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)
In this confidence, I begin this day. Amen.
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