Read Psalm 126.
Circumstances. Take a minute to stop and think of what that word is and means. For me, circumstance is what I use to gauge my day, my mood, my demeanor. If I am honest, I allow circumstances to dictate my joy, or lack thereof, far too frequently. Psalm 126 is a very strong reprove against this. The first verse states, "When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream." It continues on with, "Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations, 'The LORD has done great things for them.'" This psalm reminds the reader that God is merciful and loving, and it is His work in restoring His people, His children that leads to joy. Our joy should not come from our circumstances and the fulfillment of what we believe should occur, but should instead come from the steadfast, unchanging grace, mercy, and provision of our God. "When the LORD restored our fortunes..."
This psalm describes an agricultural flourishing and renewal in a dry barren land, hearkening back to the plentiful abundance of Eden. It is a shadow or mirror of the way life was supposed to be prior to sin and The Fall. God restoring the land and producing "streams in the Negeb" and "sheaves" where seeds were sown not only reminds God's people they are His, but declares it to the nations, and bears witness that the LORD has done great things for us. We are called to this life now so that God's love and joy may be made manifest through us to the hurting world around us.
So what are the circumstances I desire to produce joy, the circumstances I long for that incorrectly do not include God's plan and provision? Maybe they once did. They likely are things He meant for good that have been twisted by sin. The desire to have a life of ease, to work less, vacation more, spend time with family and loved ones. The list goes on. Yes, these are all good gifts from the Lord; but joy, and the feeling of invincibility and desire to dream is found only in recognizing the provision of God and His plan. May I recognize where I have mis-stepped and quickly retreat into the restoration of the Lord that leads to shouts of joy!
-- Kyrstin Alexander