“There is great joy in being still in the Lord’s presence.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – January 29, 2025
Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy. 1 Peter 1:8
Joie de vivre is a French phrase that translates to “joy of living” or “exuberance of life.” It captures a cheerful enjoyment of life, a spirit of delight, and an appreciation for the simple pleasures that make life fulfilling. It goes beyond fleeting happiness, implying a deep-seated zest for life and an ability to find beauty and meaning even in ordinary moments. I love how the French culture captures this imagery of a deep-seated zest for life. For Jesus’ lovers, this quality of joy is inevitable. He promises this completed joy in John 15 as we abide in His love. So, what is some evidence of this otherworldly joy that puts a bounce in our step and a smile on our face?
Joy bubbles out of a believer’s life who is in love with their Savior and Lord Jesus Christ. In 1 Peter 1:8, Peter celebrates that eyes of faith love and believe in Jesus, which fills a follower of Jesus with overflowing joy. Though his readers suffered from persecution, Peter reminds them of the joy of living that comes from living for the Lord. Not to be preoccupied by the pain they saw and experienced but to be captivated by the love and salvation of the Lord Jesus Christ. In his classic, The Problem of Pain, C.S. Lewis highlights great joy in our eternal dance with God,
All pains and pleasures we have known on earth are early initiations in the movements of that dance: but the dance itself is strictly incomparable with the sufferings of this present time. As we draw nearer to its uncreated rhythm, pain and pleasure sink almost out of sight. There is joy in the dance, but it does not exist for the sake of joy. It does not even exist for the sake of good, or of love. It is Love Himself, and Good Himself, and therefore happy. It does not exist for us, but we for it.
Lewis invites us to see our lives and experiences—both painful and pleasurable—as part of a larger, divine context. Our ultimate joy is found not in earthly experiences but in aligning with and participating in God’s eternal being. Joy flows naturally from God’s essence, not as a goal or product but as a manifestation of who He is. So, as we experience God, we experience His joy.
Let’s explore ways to experience God and, in the process, learn to abide in His joy. Practice gratitude by regularly reflecting on what you’re thankful for, no matter how small, to shift your focus toward the Lord’s generous blessings. Engage your senses by enjoying activities that immerse you in the present moment, such as tasting good food, listening to music, or walking in nature. Experience Christ’s love and joy through seeing, hearing, and tasting that the Lord is good (Psalm 34:8). Nurture relationships by spending quality time with friends and family growing meaningful connections that bring joy and support. Be infected by the joy of other Jesus’ followers. Pursue passion projects by dedicating time to hobbies or creative endeavors that excite and fulfill you. Your Creator is the master creative, so find joy in co-creating with Christ! Slow down by resisting the urge to rush through life. Instead, take moments to pause, reflect, and appreciate what surrounds you. There is great joy in being still in the Lord’s presence (Psalm 16:11). The joy of living is the Lord’s will for you to experience and inspire others!
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the gift of life. Fill my heart with gratitude and wonder. Help me embrace each day with joy, living fully in Your presence and purpose. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Application
What is one way to experience more joy in your life?
Related Reading
Psalm 118:24; Nehemiah 8:10; John 15:11; Philippians 4:4
Worship Resource
Elevation Worship/Jenna Barrientes: Great Is
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