“How to get started reading the Bible”—we’ve all googled it before. No matter how far you’ve come on your faith journey, reading the Bible can be hard! We’re right there with you. We see these Scripture meditations as a way to read Scripture in a digestible way. Let’s start together, one verse at a time!

What Really Makes You Happy

I’d be happier, if only _________.

Depending on what comes to mind for you, it might be true: maybe it would make you happier.

But if you let that “one thing” become too big in your mind, you might start believing that your life isn’t good enough without it. But right now, with your life just the way it is, God has plans to work in and through you. Inviting God to do that work is what really makes you happy!

Today, we’re meditating on Psalm 4:6-7, and considering what “God’s favor” looks like in our lives—even when it doesn’t involve that “one thing” just yet. Join us!

Psalm 4:6-7

6 Many, Lord, are asking, “Who will bring us prosperity?”
Let the light of your face shine on us.
7 Fill my heart with joy
when their grain and new wine abound.

Observations

• God’s “light” or favor shines on his people (v. 6)
• Our hearts can be filled with joy (v. 7)
• Joy from God matters most (v. 7)

Prayers of Response

God, I know true success comes from you, because when I didn’t deserve or earn it, you gave me _________.

Lord, help me to hold less tightly to my hopes and dreams for _________, and more tightly to you and your good plan for me.

Prayer Requests

Please fill my heart with joy about _________.

Lord, I pray that _________ (name) discovers that success won’t satisfy them like your presence is able to.

Prayers of Readiness

Lord, I will start bringing you my questions about _________, because I know you will listen and answer with patience.

Today, I will look for the small ways you’re showing me your favor as I _________.

Connect with God in the ordinary, extraordinary, everyday moments of life through other Scripture meditations like this one. Check out this page for more!

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™