Do you sometimes feel as if you have lost your joy because of something you did? King David made some poor choices by having an affair with Bathsheba and having her husband Uriah killed in the front line of war when Bathsheba conceived David’s baby. David’s sins robbed him of the joy of his salvation.
But when the prophet Nathan confronted David of his sin, David confessed his sins and wept, seeking restoration with his heavenly Father. He cried out to God for mercy [Psalm 51:1,2]. He sincerely prayed the following which we can also pray whenever we fall into sin and need restoration – “Create in me a pure/clean 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 SALVATION and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” [Ps. 51:10 -12]
It is a willing spirit which strives to do our Redeemer’s will that helps us to become aware of our sins, through Holy Spirit conviction, and helps us to repent and seek heavenly joy again! Restoration joy comes when we fully realise how very much Christ loves us, not only laying down His sweet life for us, but also sitting at the Right hand of our Father and interceding for us daily.
David did not ask God to return his salvation, because he had not lost it, but he asked for joy. No one ever recovers lost joy until there is a request for its return. So, the secret is to admit when we lose our joy and seek Father God in prayer, ask for His mercy and a return of joy, and receive His forgiveness and restoration.
Precious Heavenly Father, thank You that You are a God who sees. You see everything, even our hidden sins. Please help me, by Your grace and mercy, to realise that “All have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” [Rom. 3:23]. Please keep me humble and please reveal anything which I have done, that might steal the joy of my salvation. I want to be a joyful Christian who will attract others to Your love. I want to be useful for You in Your kingdom. I love You O Lord my strength, my song and my salvation!
Myrtle Turunen