David was a man's man. And he was often in deep trouble. Yet he had found the secret to true joy—a source that runs far deeper than superficial happiness. As David contemplated God's daily presence, he found contentment. He didn't base his life on his circumstances, but on God. The focus psalm for today provides a handle on what made David so glad hearted.

1. Does acknowledging the source of what you have (v. 2) enhance your appreciation?
   
   
2. Which friends bring you pleasure (v. 3)?
   
   
3. What other gods (v. 4) do people chase after? Why does this lead to sorrow?
   
   
4. Is seeing God as one's primary asset and source of satisfaction (vv. 5-6) a perspective you can identify with now?
   
   
5. How does true joy (v. 9) differ from happiness in what it is based on? … in its duration?
   
   
6. How does understanding the future God has for you (vv. 10-11) round out your joy?

Ask God to give you a growing joy in sensing His presence and blessing. Ask Him for a reduced reliance on external objects and events for happiness.

¹Keep me safe, O God, for I have come to you for refuge. ²I said to the Lord, "You are my Master! Every good thing I have comes from you." ³The godly people in the land are my true heroes! I take pleasure in them!

⁴Troubles multiply for those who chase after other gods. I will not take part in their sacrifices of blood or even speak the names of their gods. ⁵Lord, you alone are my inheritance, my cup of blessing. You guard all that is mine. ⁶The land you have given me is a pleasant land. What a wonderful inheritance!

⁷I will bless the Lord who guides me; even at night my heart instructs me. ⁸I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me. ⁹No wonder my heart is glad, and I rejoice. My body rests in safety.

¹⁰For you will not leave my soul among the dead or allow your holy one to rot in the grave. ¹¹You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.

Prayer for the Week

Teach me, Lord, how to harness Your joy to prevail over contrary circumstances.

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