Daily Devotion

Even though Satan comes only to bring destruction, Jesus came so we might have and enjoy our lives (John 10:10). I was at least 45 years old before I ever let myself enjoy my life. Because of growing up in incest and a joyless atmosphere, I developed the habit of merely trying to survive each day. It never occurred to me that one of the reasons Jesus died and rose from the dead was so we could all enjoy our lives. Due to sexual abuse, I never really got to experience being a child. God actually had to teach me how to enjoy life.

I felt guilty most of the time. If it wasn’t one thing, it was another; but it was all a result of my childhood. I had a wounded soul and needed Jesus to heal it, and He did. He gave me beauty for ashes and the oil of joy for mourning (Isaiah 61:3).

God’s will is for us to enjoy every day of our lives. I have good news for you: Even while you are having trials and problems, you can cast the care of them onto God (1 Peter 5:7) and still enjoy your life. The joy of the Lord is your strength (Nehemiah 8:10). Satan does all he possibly can to steal your joy because he wants us to be weak and powerless. Don’t let him win. Enjoy life and laugh as often as you can. I’m sure the devil hates to hear us laugh.

Prayer of the Day: Lord, heal my heart and restore my joy. Help me release the past, trust You in every season, and choose to enjoy the life You’ve given me, amen.