The Joy of Going to the house of the Lord
I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go into the house of the Lord.” ~ Psalms 122:1
From the time I was born until I was around 20 years old, I went to the house of the Lord whenever the doors were open. It was the foundation and core of my life that was instilled in me from the day I took my first breath. However, when my life began to take a turn in a direction I never thought possible, I didn’t recognize the importance of coming together with other believers to keep my heart following God’s design for my life. That is when I began to take on the mindset that I had to make things work on my own and struggled through several seasons, depending on my own strength instead.
Looking back, I realize how much I missed during those times. Not just the encouragement of being with other believers, but also the peace, strength, and joy that comes from being in God’s presence with His people.
Today’s key verse shows the excitement and anticipation David had about gathering in the Lord’s house. He didn’t see it as an obligation, but a privilege and joy. The temple wasn’t just a building; it was the place where God’s presence was honored, where worship lifted weary souls, and where unity among His people was strengthened.
Psalm 122 gives us several reasons why being in God’s house matters:
- It strengthens our faith (vs. 1-2) – Worshiping together with God’s people renews our perspective and reminds us that we are part of something bigger than ourselves.
- It unifies the body of Christ (vs. 3-4) – Just like Jerusalem was the gathering place for the tribes of Israel, the church is where believers come together to grow, encourage, and strengthen one another.
- It’s a place of thanksgiving and worship (v. 4) – Gathering in God’s house allows us to express gratitude for all He has done, lifting our hearts above our daily struggles.
- It is where God’s truth and justice are upheld (vs. 5) – The church is where we learn and grow in God’s Word, receiving the guidance we need for daily life.
- It is a place to pray for peace (vs. 6-9) – David prayed for the peace of Jerusalem, just as we should pray for the peace of our communities, our families, and our hearts.
Today, the house of the Lord is more than just a place I attend, it is the foundation of my calling and a home base for the ministries God has entrusted me with. I am blessed to be on staff at a great church that has given me a platform to serve and connect with others in ways I never imagined. Through the bookstore resource ministry, lay ministry, small group ministry, single mom’s ministry, and women’s ministry, I have the opportunity to pour into others, sharing the gifts, talents, and abilities that God created me to bless others with. These ministries not only allow me to serve but also keep me grounded in a community of faith, where I am continually encouraged and strengthened in my walk with Christ.
If you’ve drifted away from regularly attending church or have been disconnected from community, it’s never too late to return. God’s house is not a place of condemnation, it’s a place of grace, renewal, and joy.
- Make attending church a priority – Whether weekly services, Bible studies, or small groups, commit to being present and engaged.
- Shift your mindset – Instead of seeing church as just another obligation, ask God to restore your joy in gathering with His people.
- Seek unity – Engage with others, pray for your church, serve on a team and build relationships with fellow believers.
- Pray for God’s presence – Before you even step into church, ask God to prepare your heart to receive His peace and wisdom.
- Be expectant – Walk into God’s house with faith, knowing He has something for you every time you gather in His name.
I spent years thinking I had to handle life on my own, but the truth is, God never designed us to walk alone. His house is where we find strength in worship, encouragement in community, and wisdom in His Word. Psalm 122 reminds us that joy is found in gathering with His people, seeking His presence, and growing in faith together.
Today I want to encourage you if you’ve been distant from God’s house, take the step back. Let go of any hesitation and return with an open heart. You will find peace, joy, and renewed purpose in His presence.
“I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord!’” (Psalm 122:1)
Find gladness, strength, and peace as you choose to walk in fellowship with God and His people.
Today’s scripture reading: Psalms 122
1 I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go into the house of the Lord.”
2 Our feet have been standing within your gates, O Jerusalem!
3 Jerusalem is built as a city that is compact together,
4 Where the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord, to the Testimony of Israel, to give thanks to the name of the Lord.
5 For thrones are set there for judgment, the thrones of the house of David.
6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: “May they prosper who love you.
7 Peace be within your walls, prosperity within your palaces.”
8 For the sake of my brethren and companions, I will now say, “Peace be within you.”
9 Because of the house of the Lord our God I will seek your good.
The Daily Dose 