Wed., 7/9/14 Devotion (Ps. 144:15b)

Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 144:15b, where we read these words:

" . . . Happy are the people whose God is the LORD!"

Why is the church of God in a happy and comfortable condition? Because of our Risen Head Jesus--who has conquered our sin, forgiven us, and given us immediate, full, and free access to the throne of grace. Are God's people *al-ways* "circumstantially" happy? No; the presence of sin in us, others, and the fallen world prevents this.

But, are the redeemed of the Lord *inherently* happy? Yes; because every-thing of ultimate importance has been taken care of for us by our Savior. Cheerfulness should characterize those of us who are loved by God--even though there are legitimate times and reasons for grief. Let us be God's happy people, in Jesus and His grace.

[Puritan quote of the day: "We are only poor for this reason, that we do not know our riches in Christ." --Richard Sibbes, in, "The Bruised Reed"]