9/26/13- The Joy of the Lord is Your Strength

9 Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and teacher of the Law, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to them all, “This day is holy to the Lord your God. Do not mourn or weep.” For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law.

10 Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8:9,10)

Thoughts: There was a revival going on after the wall was built in Nehemiah's day and everyone knew that God had helped them miraculously.  In the midst of such a deep awareness of God, the people were cut to the heart, recognizing their sins and being convicted that they had failed God and sinned against the Lord.  But, Nehemiah wanted them to be able to rejoice on this holy, festival day- but they could not.  Nehemiah, however gave them this great verse- "The joy of the Lord is your strength."
    When we are grieving, when our lives are sad, when things are falling apart- it is important to remember where our joy lies.  God makes us strong through His joy.  It is not the happiness of the Lord that makes us strong.  Happiness infers no rain or sadness at all.  Rather it is God's joy that transcends circumstances that makes us strong in the tough circumstances. God's joy gives us strength on our journey no matter if we are rich or poor, healthy or not, fruitful or unfruitful.  God's joy is our true strength- and we will see that clearly when we get to heaven.  

Prayer: Lord, may your joy strengthen me and grant me grace.