There is Fullness of Joy

“You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Psalm 16:11 NKJV

In a story titled “Runners Rock the Parkway in Support of Children’s Mercy Kansas City” published Saturday, it was reported that:

More than six thousand runners hit the pavement Saturday to participate in the 17th annual Burns & McDonnell Rock the Parkway half-marathon and 5K. In partnership with KC Running Company, the race started and finished along Kansas City’s scenic Ward Parkway and benefits Children’s Mercy Kansas City, which provides healthcare, programs and resources to improve the lives of children and their families.

“It’s inspiring to see the Kansas City community come together each year in support of Children’s Mercy,” said Julee Koncak, vice president, community relations at Burns & McDonnell. “Every runner, volunteer and supporter helps strengthen the care Children’s Mercy provides to keep families strong and healthy.”

In 2025, participants raised nearly $38,000 to help bring hope and healing to children like Olivia Robinson, who has received care at Children’s Mercy since being diagnosed with a brain tumor at age three. After surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, she is now nearing two years in remission and recently overcame a rare inflammatory condition — all with remarkable resilience and joy.

And, you know, although we live in a fallen world full of disease and disappointment (hence the reason for races like this), every believer can experience a “fullness of joy” that’s not dependent on their circumstances. Why? Because the Lord has promised to lead us along “the path of life.” And while we know this path isn’t free from heartaches, hurts, and hurdles, so long as we are in His presence, joy will always abound.

You see, when David said, “In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore,” he was expressing trust in the knowledge that God was always with him—in the good times and in the bad, from his first breath until his final breath, and into eternity.

"For I am the LORD, I do not change; Therefore you are not consumed, O sons of Jacob." Malachi 3:6

Furthermore, David understood that there was a difference between joy and happiness. Happiness is fleeting because it’s dependent on circumstances, but joy is constant because it’s dependent on the One who never changes. Amazing right?

So, knowing that the source of true and endless joy is found in God’s presence, do your part in inspiring others to seek Him my friend. They will surely thank you for doing so!

Heavenly Father, thank you for providing fullness of joy in every circumstance both now and into eternity. Lord, help us to grasp what a huge blessing this is that we might not keep it to ourselves but implore others to seek God for themselves. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!