Tues., 7/9/19 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 true (redeemed) church of God in a happy and comfortable condi-tion? Because of our Risen Head Jesus—who has conquered our sin, forgiv-en us, and given us immediate, full, and free access to the throne of grace. Are God's people *always* "circumstantially" happy? No; the presence of sin in us, others, and the fallen world prevents this.

But, are the atoned-for of the Lord *inherently* happy? Yes; because every-thing of ultimate importance has been taken care of for us by our Savior. Cheerfulness always characterizes those who are loved by God—even though there are legitimate times and reasons for grief. May all the church’s true saints shine in their joy in the Lord Jesus.

[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"]