The Address of Joy

Today's Word of Wonder: Fullness

The Scripture Spotlight for Today

"You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore."
— Psalm 16:11 (NIV)

The Devotion: The Path to Overflow

We spend so much of our lives searching for joy. We pursue it in achievements, relationships, purchases, or busy schedules. We often treat joy like a commodity—something we have to earn, win, or carefully hold onto before it inevitably slips away.

But Psalm 16:11 doesn't describe joy as a result of perfect circumstances; it describes it as a location.

The psalmist doesn't say, "If I get the right job, I will have joy." He says, "in your presence there is fullness of joy."

This is a WOW Moment of spiritual geography. True, overflowing, abundant joy has an address, and that address is God's presence. It is the place where fear, worry, and striving fade, because we are resting in the one who is fully in control and fully for us.

Notice the difference between joy and fullness of joy. We might experience moments of happiness every day—a good cup of coffee, a laugh with a friend, a beautiful sunset. But the fullness described here is not a fleeting emotion; it's a deep, settled contentment that wells up from being where we were created to be: resting in relationship with our Creator.

This verse gives us a daily prescription: If you want to know the "path of life," start by spending time in His presence. When you prioritize the address of joy, you will find that the "pleasures forevermore" begin to shape and color your life right here and now. Don't chase joy; chase Presence.

Wonder Prompt (Actionable Reflection)

Our schedules often reflect what we truly value. Today, look at your plan for the next few hours.

• Are you currently living on the path of life (intentional, seeking His guidance) or the path of busyness (reactive, seeking external validation)?
  
• What is one thing you can pause or simplify in the next hour to intentionally move yourself into His presence? (e.g., stopping the car radio for a minute, closing your email for 15 minutes, or simply taking three deep, thankful breaths).