Psalm 51:12  Restore to me the joy of your salvation,. . . (NLT)

This year, 2020 has been a difficult and troubling year for all of us.  The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic that has plagued the world has caused many families heartaches.  Issues such as loss of jobs, making adjustments to a new way of schooling for children, death of loved ones, unable to visit loved ones in nursing facilities, lack of food, unable to gather for worship have been very challenging for all of us. The world has certainly been living in unprecedented times.  Many have lost faith in our governmental system and some have even lost faith in the church.  Loneliness and depression seem to have caused many to lose their joy.  Understanding that life is full of hardships and that life circumstances are ever changing; it is important for us to remind ourselves that we can depend on God to restore our joy.  No matter how stressful or painful things may become in this world, there is still reason to rejoice.  After David had been confronted with his sin and was feeling overwhelmed, he cried out to God; the God of unfailing love. He asked God to “restore to me the joy of your salvation” (Psalm 51:12). David was saying give me back the joy that I knew when I received you.  Restore the joy which enabled me to do your will.  God has promised not to leave us nor forsake us.  Therefore, we can rest assure that whenever the pressures of life bring us down, we can call on God.  God will restore joy.  During this Advent season, allow the joy of the Lord to fill your heart and not let the cares of this world overtake you.  God’s grace is sufficient.  It is more than enough for all of us.