The Joy in the Word- Nehemiah 8

1all the people came together as one in the square before the Water Gate. They told Ezra the teacher of the Law to bring out the Book of the Law of Moses, which the Lord had commanded for Israel.

2So on the first day of the seventh month Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly, which was made up of men and women and all who were able to understand. 3He read it aloud from daybreak till noon as he faced the square before the Water Gate in the presence of the men, women and others who could understand. And all the people listened attentively to the Book of the Law...

 8They read from the Book of the Law of God, making it clear^a and giving the meaning so that the people understood what was being read.

9Then 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.

10Nehemiah 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)

Thoughts: The context of these verses is important.  The people had come back from exile after 70 years.  The hopes were restored, and the scriptures were pulled out.  Some wept at the emotions of coming back to the land God had promised and hearing the scriptures read once again.  For about six hours the people all stood, and they listened "attentively" (vs. 7).  They knew God was not a secondary piece of their lives- for He had restored them and given them a fresh start- a second chance to be His people.  The Bible (Book of the Law- maybe Deuteronomy) was being read and Ezra and the Levites were "making it clear" that is preaching on it.  So there is the Word of God read and the Word of God preached.  The best preaching is defined here in vs. 8: "making the word clear."
        Nehemiah reminded them this is a time to celebrate- so the party began with good food and drink, and sharing.  The reading of the Bible may convict us of our sin,and may strike a nerve to our core, but it is also our strength and our joy.  

Prayer: Lord, may your joy strengthen me and sustain me.  May I find joy in your word, and excitement from knowing you speak to me and help me through the tough time.