There has been so much going on recently that it may be difficult to keep joy in our hearts. This morning I went to God’s Word for His truth. Our joy comes from what He has done, and is over our circumstances, not because of them. “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” (Ps. 51:10-12)

The Lord creates pure hearts within us when we humble ourselves and submit to Him. “Direct my footsteps according to Your Word; let no sin rule over me.” (Ps. 119:133)

This morning I thought about how easy it is to look upon our circumstances instead of our Savior. I thought back to an old hymn that reminds us where we should look. “Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how He did it. Because He never lost sight of where He was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—He could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. And now He’s there, in the place of honor, right alongside God.” (Heb. 12:2 MSG)

O soul, are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see?
There’s light for a look at the Savior,
And life more abundant and free.
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.