I am sitting here comfortably in bed, this wet, rainy morning. A lovely cup of coffee sits beside me, my still-packed backpack from yesterday at my feet. I have officially completed two weeks of nursing school now. I’ve already met some amazing people, been pushed beyond my comfort zone, had both disappointed and encouraging test results, and been fascinated by the material we’re studying. Yes, it’s all overwhelming, but I’m trying to take it one step at a time and stay organized…thankfully this girl thrives on organizing. :)

I read this passage from Psalm 16 today and wanted to share it with you:

The LORD is my chosen portion and my cup;
you hold my lot.
The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance.

I bless the Lord who gives me counsel;
in the night also my heart instructs me.
I have set the Lord always before me;
because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.

Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices;
my flesh also dwells secure,
For you will not abandon my should to Sheol,
or let your holy one see corruption.

You make known to me the path of life;
in your presence there is fullness of joy;
at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

The psalmist is unmovable, joyful, and hidden in the assurance that God is holding him secure. I was thinking the other day about this word: fulfillment. I was also thinking about my life and how it has ups and downs. If I was simply depending on life circumstances to fulfill me, I would always be disappointed. Searching. Discontented. How often I try to cling to those things that can be snatched away from me in an instant!

This made me think about how we were created in the image of God. He made us with the desire to be fulfilled. More specifically, though, fulfilled by what or whom?

By Himself.

Nothing else can truly satisfy us. Nothing! We can do everything possible to try to find lasting joy –  pursue a variety of pleasurable activities, log onto social media, try  to “fix” our problems – attempting to quench that burning void, but it only leaves us emptier than when we started. If God made us and can truly understand our desires for fulfillment, how much more can he infinitely fulfill us!? He delights in giving good things to us, but if we take all the “stuff” He gives us without seeking after Him, are we really going to be satisfied? God know exactly what will give us joy: and it’s Himself. We will never be shaken and we will never be disappointed when clinging to the Lord.

Well, the rain has stopped and the sun has come out. It’s time to start the day (and unpack my backpack), so I’ll say goodbye for now. Blessings to you, my friends!