Psalm 126:1-7

Joy is to be one of the hallmarks of the believer’s life.  There are times when it is very easy to rejoice, but there are also many times when it is hard.  The joy that God desires to see in our lives is not conditional, but should be a constant reality.  However, in this sin cursed world, things with us are not always as they should be.  Our “real life” experiences tell us that there are days of misfortune and profound sadness.  Depression seems to be at an all-time high in today’s society and it does not seem to be much different in those who attend our churches.  How can we experience the unconditional joy that God demands and desires to see in our lives?  There are two factors that contribute mightily to being able to rejoice in the Lord.

HOPE IN THE PROMISES OF GOD: This Psalm speaks in the past tense about things that seem to be in the future.  That, by very definition, is hope.  The fortunes of Zion had been plundered and we can see throughout history that Israel has been destroyed and the people dispersed.  However, God has made very clear promises to His people about restoration.  Even though thoughts of restoration may have seemed only like a dream; these promises are a true and valid source of joy.  We know that no matter how bad things may get; God will set things right.  One day all the pain of this present life will pass away and we will have great reason to rejoice.  Those who scoff at the people of God and doubt the goodness and power of God will not have any choice but to admit that God has done wonderful things and that they true people of God have great reason for gladness and joy.  When we are called to face great problems in this life, we must place our hope on the promises of God’s Word and rejoice in the truth.  We know beyond a shadow of a doubt that God will redeem and restore His children and that we will have no more reason for sadness for all of eternity.  That hope should bring a smile to our face and joy to our hearts right now.


OBEDIENCE TO THE PRINCIPLES OF GOD: Disobedience is one of the greatest contributors to depression in our lives today.  When we disobey the Lord and neglect our responsibilities we feel guilt.  Guilt is a bad feeling that makes us sad.  When we are experiencing feelings of guilt and sadness we just don’t feel like doing anything which leads to more negligence and disobedience.  This, in turn, creates more guilt and sadness and so the cycle of depression goes until Satan accomplishes his goal of destroying our lives or making us completely miserable and ineffective.  This Psalm states that “Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy!”  Sowing is an act of faith and obedience.  It is a farmer’s responsibility to sow.  However, there are many days when a farmer might not feel like sowing.  There are days when all he feels like doing is crying.  However, if he gives in to his feelings and decides to sit down and cry instead of planting his seeds; things will go from bad to worse.  Not only will he be sad, but pretty soon his food will run out and he will be hungry.  Certainly it would be ideal to sow with a smile on our faces, but as we already noted, we do not live in an ideal world.  The reality is that sometimes we have to sow in sadness.  That act of obedience is an all important step towards being able to rejoice in a wonderful harvest.  Obedience to God, no matter how sad we might feel, will help to dry our tears and fill our hearts with the joy of the Lord.

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