May 5th
Today’s reading includes several Psalms: chapters 1–2, 15, 22–24, 47, and 68. A central theme that threads through all these chapters is the origin of true happiness.
When we hear the word “blessed,” we often think of God pouring out His favor. And that’s true. But in both the Old Testament (Hebrew) and the New Testament (Greek), the word also carries a meaning I don’t naturally associate with it: “happiness.”
For example, in the Beatitudes, when Jesus says, “Blessed are the poor in spirit… those who mourn… the pure in heart… the peacemakers… and the persecuted,” we can just as accurately read those as, “Happy are the poor in spirit… happy are those who mourn… happy are the pure in heart… and the persecuted.”
This might challenge how we think. We may need to reframe our understanding: God’s blessing is not just a gift—it’s also an inward experience. True happiness, according to Scripture, is rooted in God’s presence and approval, not in how easy or comfortable life is.
This shift in understanding shows us that “blessed” doesn’t just describe what God gives—it also reflects what grows in those who are connected to God: contentment. A key takeaway from today’s chapters is that happiness flows from a relationship with God. Psalm 1 begins with this truth,
“Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers…”
In other words, happy is the one who separates from ungodly influences and leans into God. Psalm 2 builds on the principle,
“Blessed are all who take refuge in Him.” (v.12)
David’s psalm in chapter 15 expands the idea further. It paints a picture of the person who dwells in God’s presence—who lives uprightly and walks with integrity. That person, the psalm says, “shall never be moved;” they will be content.
Then we come to Psalms 22–24, which reveals that true happiness is not tied to circumstance, but to nearness with God. Psalm 22 opens with the words Jesus cried from the cross,
“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”
Yet, in ultimate suffering, Psalm 23 offers this comfort,
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me.”
Happiness exists not because life is easy, but because God is near.
Psalm 24 teaches us why this is true because God is the King of Glory. The author of life knows what is best. When we walk in the creator’s ways, we find lasting joy. That’s why Psalm 47 calls us to,
“Clap your hands, all peoples! Shout to God with loud songs of joy!”
In appreciation for the gift of blessedness/happiness we realize there is nothing better one can do—nothing more right or fulfilling than to praise God. As Psalm 68:3 declares,
“The righteous shall be glad.”
And the reading ends with a hopeful proclamation,
“Blessed be God!” (Psalm 68:35)
Takeaway: Lean into God so that you recognize Him as the true origin of happiness. Understand that happiness is experienced when we honor Him as the only one who is worthy. Just as the word “blessed” transforms from an outward influence to an inward experience, so too should our attitude transform from inward cravings to a desire to bring happiness to God.