Joy That Blooms in the Desert
A devotional for Monday
Scripture
The wilderness and the dry land will be glad; the desert will rejoice and blossom like a wildflower. It will blossom abundantly and will also rejoice with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon will be given to it, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon. They will see the glory of the Lord, the splendor of our God.
Isaiah 35:1–2
Reflection
Happiness often depends on what is happening around us, but joy tells a different story. Joy can exist even when circumstances feel dry, barren, or lifeless. Isaiah 35 opens with a striking image: a desert bursting into bloom. This promise was spoken to people who had known loss, exile, and disappointment for a long time. They were not happy, but God promised joy anyway. This kind of joy is not manufactured by comfort or success. It is created by the presence and power of God. The desert does not bloom because it tries harder; it blooms because God intervenes. In the same way, joy is not something we can force through better habits, better relationships, or better circumstances. True joy is a byproduct of God’s presence at work within us. Happiness fades when life becomes difficult, but joy takes root even in hardship. God specializes in bringing life where nothing seems able to grow. When we stop trying to produce joy on our own, we make room for God to do what only He can do.
Question / Challenge
Where have you been trying to manufacture happiness instead of inviting God to bring His joy?