How happy are those who finally admit they’ve been walking away from God’s plan and turn back with a sincere heart to recommit their lives to Him. There’s no joy quite like a fresh start with God. “Count yourself lucky, how happy you must be—you get a fresh start, your slate’s wiped clean. Count yourself lucky—God holds nothing against you…” The burden of sin, guilt, and regret can crush the spirit, but when God forgives, He erases every mark of failure. He doesn’t hold our mistakes against us; instead, He welcomes us home with open arms and gives us a brand-new beginning. Happiness isn’t found in wealth, status, or success—it’s found in being right with God again.
Nothing is more miserable, discouraging, or meaningless than trying to live outside of God’s plans and purposes for our lives. Life without His guidance feels empty and exhausting. “The pressure never lets up; all the juices of my life dried up.” That’s what happens when we rely on ourselves instead of on God. The stress becomes unbearable, the soul dries out, and everything loses its color and purpose. But the moment we turn back—when we finally confess and come clean—everything changes. “Then I let it all out; I said, ‘I’ll make a clean breast of my failures to God.’ Suddenly the pressure was gone—my guilt dissolved, my sin disappeared.” God’s forgiveness is instant and complete. He doesn’t just remove the guilt; He restores our peace, our purpose, and our joy.
And this isn’t true for a select few—it’s true for everyone in the world! God will bless all who run to Him. He will reveal His plan for our lives and guide us in what to do—if only we’ll humble ourselves before Him. “Let me give you some good advice; I’m looking you in the eye and giving it to you straight: Don’t be ornery like a horse or mule that needs bit and bridle to stay on track.” God doesn’t want to force us into obedience; He invites us into trust. Only heartache waits on the path away from Him, but joy, satisfaction, and unending blessings overflow for those who seek His will. “God-defiers are always in trouble; God-affirmers find themselves loved every time they turn around.” So, let’s do what the psalmist says: “Sing together—everyone! All you honest hearts, raise the roof!” We might even sing, “I can’t live, I can’t live, if living is without youuuuuuuu!” For it’s true—real life, real joy, real peace only begin when we’re living with Him.