Fullness of Joy

So often, when I pray, I ask something from God--like for example, material possessions or help with this or that. My prayer is rarely that I want His presence. "I Want Your Presence" is a song by Bethany Dillon that I've found that describes my renewed desire for God, my longing for Him. Ever since yesterday when I decided to start spending less time on Facebook, I've discovered that just being in God's presence brings me so much joy. The God of the Universe not only loves and delights in me, but He wants to spend quality time with me. Unintentionally, I have ignored God beckoning me to Himself. So many idols and distractions, so many fake imitations of God have left me empty and wanting.

Psalm 16:11 shares what brings authentic joy: You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. I've been a child of God since I was seven years old, but I've fallen prey to the many fake replicas of what can bring true satisfaction. I've now tasted and seen that the Lord is good!(Psalm 34:8). I've also fallen prey to the idea that falling in love or getting married will fill my emptiness. Marriage shouldn't be my life goal. My ultimate goal should be Christ. God has been convicting me of the false notions I've believed about marriage. Marriage isn't primarily for a couple's happiness. Marriage consists of two sinners; not complete saints. Apart from Christ, we will all be left wanting. Nothing can satisfy like Jesus can!