"The Lord takes pleasure in all He has made." Psalm 104:31
When you try to picture God's face, what expression does He have? Many people see Him as serious, others as angry, and still others as emotionless. Movies about Jesus often depict Him as humorless and expressionless, constantly staring into the distance and speaking in a breathy, weighty voice. I've known few people who, in their minds' eye, see God or Jesus smiling.
Considering how often Scripture speaks of God's joy, that's surprising. God's people are repeatedly encouraged to rejoice, and we are told that the joy of the Lord is our strength. God takes pleasure in what He does, delights in His people, and rejoices when those who were lost come into His Kingdom. C.S. Lewis said that joy is the serious business of heaven, and he was right. The climate of the Kingdom isn't primarily an all work no play attitude. It's gladness. Pure, unbridled joy.
Sadly, few Christians live in a way that reflects the joyful environment of heaven. Some know they should and try to act joyful in all circumstances, but in trying to convince themselves of their joy, they convince few others. But true joy springs up from within, not because we should be joyful but because we are. A heart that truly grasps the nature of God--that actually senses Him smiling-- is a heart that begins to overflow with joy.
Spending time in God's Presence cultivates all the feelings of His heart, but it especially cultivates joy. You may go through difficult situations that don't exactly put a smile on your face, but know even in those times that joy is the environment of heaven. And God wants that environment to pervade your soul. Soak in His Presence, feel His goodness, see His smile and be joyful.
from: Experiencing God's Presence
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