Joy

 Psalm 30:5 

For his anger is just for a moment, and his favour is for a lifetime. Weeping may last for the night, but joy comes with the morning.


God gets angry. We mustn't gloss over this truth. He's rightfully angry at all that is unlovely. 

Thankfully, God's anger is momentary, and his favour is everlasting. He's like a loving father who gives his unruly son the rod for a moment, but then embraces him and welcomes him back into loving communion with him. We need God's discipline.

If we're not disciplined ourselves, God will discipline us. He might drive us to tears through the night, but with the morning he will bring joy to us. Even if this life is a vale of tears, the next one is eternal joy.

Thankfully, we can know much joy, even in this life. Every sunrise is pregnant with the promises of God. His mercies are new every morning. 

'Dear Lord God, we're grateful not just for the joy you bring, but also for your discipline. Please help us to look forward to our forever rest with you. For the honour of your name, amen'.

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