Paul from his prison writes to those believers outside to Rejoice in the Lord. (Philippians 4:4) David encourages believers to delight in the Lord and receive the desires of the heart. (Psalms 37: 3-4)
Trust: Those who trust have a clearer vision and perspective. Having faith in God, irrespective of circumstances, leads to happiness, gladness, and joy. Faith is an antidote for fear, fretting, worry, doubt, and envy.
Delight: First, it is to expect all joy, and happiness from the Lord. Faith based on the giver, the Lord, and His trustworthiness fills a believer with joy. Second, redirect the emotions by thinking and acting on more important issues. Paul and Silas could redirect themselves to sing, worship, praise, and pray to the Lord. (Acts 16:25-26) David was able to change his mood from weeping and lamenting for Absalom and taking charge as a king. (II Kings 19:1-8) Third, Delight needs effort to withdraw from the desires of earth, fixing eyes on the Lord who is seated at the right hand of God, and seeking things that are above. (Colossians 3:1) Earthly worries will pull like gravity towards mundane things, heavenly vision and pursuit will help a believer to rise above circumstances. Fourth, if wicked to rejoice in the wicked wealth, Christians should have godliness with contentment and rejoice in their eternal treasures. Five, delighting in the Lord means to dwell in His presence, seeing His beauty, and learning from Him. (Psalms 27:4) Six, God delights in His children. When he is delighted how can the believers be sorrowful? (Proverbs 8:31) Seven, those who meditate the Word of God, day and night are delightfully blessed. (Psalms 1:1-3)
Presence of the Lord: Sadhu Sundar Singh once said that where Christ is, it is heaven. If he is in hell, that also becomes heaven. The circumstances and context, even as torturous as hell, do not determine a believer’s capacity to rejoice. It’s of no consequence, for believers are anchored in Him, who provides joy, contentment, and peace. In His presence is the fullness of joy. (Psalms 16:11)
Do I delight in the Lord?