Now that’s a “churchy” phrase that I have heard repeatedly in these many years of mine.  I’ve heard it read, and I’ve sung it.  It was part of the liturgy which was used for many years.  But I don’t think I’ve given too much thought to its meaning.

The words, from Psalm 51, are part of David’s prayer for forgiveness.  He had sinned with Bathsheba and months of unconfessed sin left him in misery, spiritual defeat.  He humbly asked for God’s forgiveness.  But, he also wanted to once again experience the “joy” known to those whom the Lord has rescued.  This joy has been translated as the profound happiness that arises from being in a right relationship with God, a deep peace.

How about you and me?  We bow our heads in penitence.  Can we then raise our heads with the joy of being “restored” to the joy of a right relationship?  Something to think about.  Then we too can join in singing, I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart.

Have a joy-filled day.  You are forgiven and the joy of salvation is yours!

Judy