(c) 1999 Anna M. K. Hazen

Trusting in God’s Promises: A Joyful Reflection
In Psalm 37, David, with a lively spirit, encourages us not to be troubled by those who seem to thrive on the wrong side of life. His exhortation to us is clear: “Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong; for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away” (Psalm 37:1-2). Can you believe it? All that scheming and deceit, and they’re as temporary as yesterday’s leftovers! Instead of fretting, we’re invited to “trust in the LORD and do good” (Psalm 37:3). Honestly, isn’t it much more fulfilling to root for the side that’s already won.

When we delight in the LORD, it’s like finding a treasure chest of joy! Who knew that serving Him could feel so liberating? He promises, “He will give you the desires of your heart” (Psalm 37:4). It’s not as if God’s a genie, but He does have a knack for providing us with joy that rivals our wildest expectations. So while the world chases after fleeting pleasures, we get the joy of seeing our hearts aligned with what truly satisfies us.

Now, let’s talk about patience. Waiting on God can feel like being stuck at a traffic light that just won’t change. But wait! The promise that “those who hope in the LORD will inherit the land” (Psalm 37:9) speaks to the joy of knowing that good things come to those who wait—like that unexpected inheritance that shows up when you least expect it! You can almost hear the angels cheering us on, saying, “Hang in there, you’re almost at the finish line!”

In John 5, we find the healed man rejoicing after a miraculous encounter with Jesus. He boldly tells everyone about his healing, providing all of us with a reminder: When God does something amazing in your life, share it! Imagine him running around town, “Did you hear? I can walk now! Who’s got two thumbs up and is walking? This guy!” Our stories of God’s goodness are like a highlight reel of His faithfulness. They uplift not just our spirits but the spirits of those around us!

Life can throw curveballs that leave us questioning everything—sometimes we feel like we’re in a sitcom, surrounded by chaos. But instead of letting our troubles script the narrative, we can choose to embrace them. These moments shape us, teach us lessons we never knew we’d need, and refine us much like a finished diamond emerges from the rough stone. Our struggles are not wasted; they’re a part of His divine plan, crafting us into who we were meant to be.

The verse in Romans 8:28 lifts our spirits higher: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” This assurance is like having a backstage pass to God’s grand production—everything in our lives is woven together for His ultimate good. We’re reminded that “the righteous will live by faith” (Romans 1:17) as we confidently move forward, trusting that God’s not only has the map He IS the map (John 1:1); even when we can’t see the road ahead.

Let’s not forget the beauty of acknowledging God in every area of our lives. He’s not just Savior on Sundays – Jethro Tull says, “He’s not the kind you have to wind up on Sundays”; He’s the daily navigational system for our lives (Proverbs 3:5-6). The call to lift Jesus high is filled with the kind of joyful anticipation that makes us want to shout from the rooftops. “And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to Myself” (John 12:32). What an incredible promise! Picture it: as we lift Him up, others are irresistibly drawn to the joy and hope He brings.

Let’s keep our spiritual lamps filled and our hearts expectant, ready for His glorious return. The King is coming, and all who trust in Him are promised a joyful eternity. This truth ignites an uncontainable joy within us and compels us to lift our voices in celebration: **“Hallelujah, He saved the best for last!”** ✨