Today’s devotional comes from TCU student Brian Dickson Jr. (’22). Brian is an Art Education major, a leader in TCU Black Student Association (BSA), and he is also the president of the TCU Gospel Choir. If you haven’t watched their performance yet in the TCU Carols by Candlelight video, be sure to do so; you will spot him right in front!
Reading: Habakkuk 3:17-19
“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails, and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign LORD is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he enables me to tread on the heights.”
Reflection:
It is common to confuse happiness and joy. Happiness is a temporary feeling that comes and goes as you accomplish or gain something that pleases your flesh but leaves your soul hungry. Joy is a fire that is lit deep within and its flame continues through your trust and faith in God.
Joy is all about being fulfilled and satisfied with knowing you will always have God. In his word, He tells us that He will never leave us nor forsake us, and just knowing that brings joy and comfort to the heart. This life was not made to be easy; it comes with trials and tribulations that are a part of God’s plan and in order to truly obtain joy, you must trust in God’s will. He knows what our future holds, and though tomorrow is not promised, His everlasting love and salvation is forever guaranteed.
“How can you smile and be happy during a pandemic, or while the world is on fire?” The dark clouds of doubt will try to settle in your heart, yet your heart is a temple for the Holy Spirit and God’s light. No matter how hard life gets, nothing and no one can take away the joy of knowing my life is in God’s hands. He has brought me out of many terrible situations, and nothing is too big for him to handle. He is a sovereign God, and he has already won. We will get through this and overcome anything else the enemy attempts to use to break our faith and optimism.
Prayer:
Father God,
Humbly I come before you and ask that you touch our hearts, and comfort us in these trying times. Helps us understand the true definition of Joy and give us peace and strength to handle any and all adversities.
Amen.
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