For a week or two now, a cold has been dampening my spirits (especially in the mornings). Yet, thankfully, in this morning’s devotional reading I was reminded how the redeeming work of the Lord is a great source of inner joy for His people, regardless of external circumstances. And so it is! My heart warms at the remembrance of what the Lord has done for me! Joy comes again!

Look with me at Jeremiah 31 (emphasis added) — 

10 “Hear the word of the Lord, O nations, and declare it in the coastlands far away; say, ‘He who scattered Israel will gather him, and will keep him as a shepherd keeps his flock.’ 11 For the Lord has ransomed Jacob and has redeemed him from hands too strong for him. 12 They shall come and sing aloud on the height of Zion, and they shall be radiant over the goodness of the Lord, over the grain, the wine, and the oil, and over the young of the flock and the herd; their life shall be like a watered garden, and they shall languish no more. 13 Then shall the young women rejoice in the dance, and the young men and the old shall be merry. I will turn their mourning into joy; I will comfort them, and give them gladness for sorrow. 14 I will feast the soul of the priests with abundance, and my people shall be satisfied with my goodness, declares the Lord.” (esv)

Do you know this joy of redemption? Has the Lord drawn you to Himself in a saving way? Then a response of praise should flow from your heart at the thought of all He has done for you!

pdb