Psalm 19:8 “The precepts of the LORD are right,”

[You, Lord, make the lines clear: this is right, that is wrong. And praise you that you do it as much in principles as in particulars, like, “honor your father and mother,” which can be lived out differently in different cultures.

Then you present us with the wisdom to know how to apply these principles in various situations in our lives, giving us guidance in the grey areas. “If any man lacks wisdom, let him ask of God….” (James 1:5)]

“The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart.”

[Knowing what is right and wrong brings security, for having clear boundaries lessens the stress of decision making—you never have to struggle about robbing a bank or not! Knowing truth brings joy, one of the pleasures you desire for us to have in growing amounts.

As you, Lord Jesus, said in John 15:11, “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” Joy is there, offered to us for the taking–we just need to take your Word seriously, reject the tendency to complain and choose to live the truth that knowing Jesus is enough for joy.

Such joy does not come from circumstances (as happiness does) but from our relationship with you, which will never be altered from your side–meaning joy is always available, no matter how we may feel.]

Our part in joy is to trust: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace AS YOU TRUST in HIM….” Let’ not be like this suspicious dog, but rest in God’s goodness!