“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign LORD is my strength; He makes my feet like the feet of a deer, He enables me to go on the heights.” Habakkuk 3:17-19
Have you ever had the privilege of visiting with Christians in a third-world country? I have had the opportunity to do so several times and I am always so blessed and convicted. What amazes me the most is their gratitude and joy. I have met many families living in “houses” made from whatever trash could be gathered. Sometimes seven or more people live in one room, sleeping on the floor and eating one meal a day. Water is a luxury, and is fetched by walking to the nearest source. No air conditioning, shoes, medical care, or indoor plumbing…and yet there is an abundance of joy.
My first thought is, why? From where does this gratitude come? I sometimes have trouble being thankful when I have more than I need. What is their secret? The answer is almost always the same. If you ask these brothers and sisters why they are so joyful they will smile and say, “God is good! He is faithful!”
They have learned that joy has nothing to do with external circumstances. Joy is the result of something much deeper…something lasting. God has enabled countless Christians worldwide to “go on the heights” of poverty, persecution, and suffering. They have learned that God is enough. He is all they need. He is more than they need. With this elusive truth comes great strength and joy.
So why do so few of us ever find this type of joy? I believe it could be that we do not really believe that God is enough. We may say we believe that, but in reality, we think we need God and the approval of others, or God and a great marriage, or God and financial security. And the more independent we become, the less we feel the need to depend on God. And if we stop relying on Him to meet our needs, how will we ever learn and believe that He is sufficient?
True joy is found only in God. In plenty and in want, in sickness and in health, in the valleys and on the mountaintops, God is sufficient. He is good, and His love endures forever.
Dear Father, I have so much to be thankful for. I long to have the kind of joy that isn’t dependent on my circumstances. Please help me to rejoice in You and only You. Show me the areas of my life where I am not depending on Your strength. I know, God, that you are sufficient for all my needs and desires. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Topics: Joy
