Joy in the Walk

December 3, 2012

Yesterday’s devotion was about his laws, statutes, etc. and how they bring joy.  I think the reason we struggle with that concept is because the lawgivers of our land, those who are over us, often lead us down wrong paths, are harsh in dealing with us, and we certainly don’t feel joyful when we’ve broken a law and are handed a ticket with a huge fine to pay.

Most of the laws and precepts handed to us in real life aren’t handed to us with love – they’re handed to us with consequences if we don’t obey.  They are often made for our safety if we follow them, but they also bring fear with them if we don’t.

Another psalm says we are made glad with the “joy” of His presence.  There’s the difference. HIS presence is offered to us while we follow his ways.

We can’t follow a list of laws and commands in our own strength.  We will fail.  We will push the boundaries and often fall off a cliff.  But instead of being handed a fine of sorts, HE hands us mercy and grace and pulls us up to walk with him again.

He’s this cool Shepherd that walks along beside us to guide and lead us. All we have to do is follow.  And that’s why there’s joy in His presence.  The fear of falling is gone, the shame in wandering off only to realize we’re lost is erased, and all that’s left is joy in walking beside him.