Galatians 5:22-23

NIV’s Psalm 69:32 says, “The poor will see and be glad– you who seek God, may your hearts live!” Many translations have nuanced the word “poor” to “humbled” and “glad” to “rejoice.” Each time I read a different translation, my mind can see something I’ve never seen before.

My initial instinct when I read the word “poor” is to think of those with little. For some of us, we might think that this passage does not apply to us because we are more fortunate than we deserve. Change that word to “humble,” and all of a sudden we realize that this passage can, and should, apply to our lives.

One of the things I like to do is watch those videos showing the scale of the universe. I am quickly humbled to see how small and insignificant each one of us appears. I get the same feeling when I catch a glimpse of God. That sense of humility quickly morphs into a feeling of joy. I rejoice in the knowledge of what God has done, and is doing in my life.

But there are moments in my life when I do not feel like rejoicing. Perhaps in those moments, more than others, I need to look for God. If I see him for just a second, I will feel humbled and then rejoice again.

Prayer

Almighty God, reveal yourself to me so that I might feel the joy living in you brings. Amen.