2 January 2009

Joyful, Joyful

Then the LORD said to Cain, "Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must master it."
(Genesis 4:6-7, NIV)

These words from the familiar story of Cain and Abel hit me square on in my devotions this morning - a personal challenge for the New Year! The Bible translation that I was using this morning was The Living Bible, and said:

"Why is your face so dark with rage? It can be bright with joy if you will do what you should."

Having blogged previously about coming up against some strong ill-feelings last year, I'm really looking to capture some 'joy' in my life for 2009.

Joyful, joyful, we adore thee,
God of glory, Lord of love;
Hearts unfold like flowers before thee,
Hail thee as the sun above.
Melt the clouds of sin and sadness,
Drive the clouds of doubt away;
Giver of immortal gladness,
Fill us with the light of day.
SASB 10 - Henry van Dyke (1852-1933)

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