“Those who look to Him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.” — Psalm 34:5 (NIV)
There’s something unmistakable about a person who walks with genuine joy — not the fake kind that fades under pressure, but the kind that lights up a room even in hard seasons. That kind of joy doesn’t come from circumstances; it comes from looking to God.
David said, “Those who look to Him are radiant.” The word “radiant” means glowing, shining, or bright. It’s the same word used to describe how Moses’ face shone after spending time in God’s presence (Exodus 34:29). When we fix our eyes on Him, His light reflects through us.
Think about it — people can tell when you’ve been with God. There’s a calmness in your voice, a warmth in your smile, a peace in your eyes. It’s not about pretending everything is perfect. It’s about living with a quiet confidence that your life is held by someone greater.
I once worked with a woman named Denise who went through years of health challenges. Her body was weak, but her spirit was unshakable. Every morning, she’d greet her coworkers with, “Good morning, beloved!” and mean it. Her face seemed to glow, even on days when she was in pain. One colleague finally asked her, “How do you stay so joyful?” She smiled and said, “Because I know who’s carrying me.”
That’s the kind of radiant joy Psalm 34 is talking about. It’s not skin-deep — it’s Spirit-deep. The more time you spend looking to God, the more your life becomes a mirror of His goodness.
The world doesn’t need perfect Christians; it needs radiant ones — people whose joy testifies that God is real and faithful. Your joy might be the first sermon someone ever ‘hears.’
So, look to Him again today. When you do, shame lifts, peace settles, and your light begins to shine a little brighter.
Reflection questions:
- What does my attitude reflect to those around me?
- Have I been spending enough time in God’s presence to let His joy radiate through me?
When you look to God, His joy becomes your glow — and that light can change lives.
Prayer
Lord, help me to live with a joy that reflects Your goodness. When life feels dim, remind me to look up and find light in Your presence. Let my smile, words, and actions shine with the hope that comes from knowing You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Read: Proverbs 17:22; Romans 15:13
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 27:15-22; Hebrews 11:1-16; Ezekiel 22:23-31; Ezekiel 23