DAILY DIFFERENCE DEVOTION 06/16/2010

I have set the LORD always before me: because [he is] at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope.  For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence [is] fulness of joy; at thy right hand [there are] pleasures for evermore. (PSALMS 16:8-11 KJV)

“SPENDING TIME WITH CHRIST IN JOY”

What is my favorite TV show to watch: “Top Chef”.  I cannot wait until this evening when the new season of Top Chef takes place near my home location around Washington DC.  The best part about watching Top Chef is spending time with my wife.  At that time both of us are able to share our ideas and opinions on the show and with each other on food etc.  I have enjoyed each year spending with my wife watching Top Chef.  In fact, honey, if you read this blog today, get ready because this year I am going to be right about picking the winner again.  It never gets boring or ritualistic in watching Top Chef with my wife.

Are we just as joyful about our time with the Lord Jesus Christ?  Are you ever joyful praying to God?  Are you ever joyous when the Word of God is read either to you or by your own eyes?  Do you rejoice when spending time with the Lord?  Many times we can get caught up in doing things religiously; as if spending time with God is another ritual part of our day.  We almost become like those of Isaiah 29:13.

Wanting to stay away from the dangers dead religious ritual, how can we have joy in our time with the Lord?  From the Psalm 16 text we can draw out some of things:

- Put the Lord before you (Psalm 27:1)
- Rest in Hope (Acts 2:26)
- Trust that He will judge righteously and keep you (1 Chronicles 16:33, Jude 1:24)
- Know that Jesus Christ is with you (Matthew 28:20, Jeremiah 1:8, Hebrews 13:5-6)
- Know that God will lead you and guide you (Psalm 23, Proverbs 3:5-6)
- Know all riches of His life are in Him (Ephesians 1:3-14, 3:16, Philippians 4:19,
  2 Peter 1:5-11)

Doing some of these things will help us enjoy our time and presence with the Lord.  Let’s enjoy seeking after our God.  Let us seek Him diligently (Hebrews 11:6), and be joyful in the times we spend with Him.  God bless

Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-22)