SUNSHINE FOR YOUR SOUL

READ: Psalm 84

The LORD God is a sun and shield. – Psalm 84:11

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Psalms 82-84

Many people feel cheerful in fair weather, but they are depressed when skies are grey. The travel industry thrives on this fact by luring millions of people to brighter climates. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying the sun and its many benefits. But if we rely on good weather to maintain our good cheer, the climate of our inner world will be as changeable as the weather.

This was my condition before I became a Christian while in my teens. Each morning I would check out the weather. If it was bright, I felt happy; if it was gloomy, so was I. One night I realized I needed Jesus. Kneeling by my bed, I accepted His forgiveness for my sins and invited Him into my life. The next morning I forgot to check the weather! It simply didn’t matter anymore. The “Sun of Righteousness” had risen in my heart (Mal. 4:2) and had replaced my fickle source of happiness with Himself.

Since then, my personal world has known some dark times, but the Lord has been my constant “sun and shield” (Ps. 84:11). I still prefer sunny days, but I’m no longer a “sun-worshiper.” Instead, I’m a worshiper of God’s Son who shines brightly within me – whatever the weather.

Which kind of worshiper are you? – Joanie Yoder

There is sunshine in my soul today,

More glorious and bright

Than glows in any earthly sky,

For Jesus is my light. – Hewitt

Lasting happiness doesn’t come from sunny days but from the Son of God.