Me for Joy?

So, in my insomnia last night - which has become the norm lately - I read a puritan prayer on Joy. I'm fighting for joy and seeking the one true and pure source of joy, which is found in Christ. But one line grabbed a hold of me:

"Thou preparest me for joy, and joy for me."

Hmm..so me for joy?

Would that mean that the Lord, through working in me, sanctifying me, cleaning out the junk, giving me strength and victory over sin - would and could use me for joy? I know his word twice calls us the "apple of his eye" and he delights in us - His creation, his children. But I find it very humbling that he would prepare me for joy. It's hard to think of myself as one who has the capacity to bring joy to others - but why sell myself short? I am a child of one very amazing and powerful God!

But what brings immense comfort to me right now, is that He also prepares joy for me.

Man, I needed to hear that.

I really like reading through the Puritan Prayers in the book, "The Valley of Vision." It is beautiful, scriptural and brings new language to God's word. And gives me the very words I need to express to my Father, when I struggle right now to find my own.