“The joy of the Lord is my strength.” Nehemiah 8:10
How am I going to get through today? I have felt this many times in my life. I am finally learning how to find joy in tumultuous situations.
The important truth about the joy of the Lord is it does not relate or is dependent upon your circumstances. The joy comes from Jesus and can be attained by any believer.
The Israelites who returned to Jerusalem from captivity were grieving over their circumstances. The city was destroyed and enemies were all around them. They felt helpless.
Nehemiah was given a mission by God to restore Jerusalem. He told the Israelites today is Holy and the joy of the Lord is your strength and protection. He asked Ezra, the scribe, to read from the Book of the Law of Moses. The people listened and were uplifted with hope in God.
The spiritual truth is to wake up each day believing it is a Holy day ordained by God and the joy of the Lord is your strength.
This joy will come through prayer, reading the Word, and listening for the voice of God. Praise Jesus and thank Him for what He has given you.
The joy of the world is short lived and dependent on your circumstances. The joy of Jesus comes from Heaven and is without limits.
It is possible to be filled with joy every day of your life regardless of the challenges facing you.
Jesus knows from His personal experience in the world how difficult life can be. This is why He said My yoke is easy and My burden is light. Jesus takes away the fear and worry and replaces with His joy.
Jesus gives a believer strength and protection and removes the onerous burdens of the world.
Joy is an expression of the unconditional love of Jesus and His promises for believers.
The joy comes because no weapon formed against me shall prosper. I belong to Jesus!
Hal Hollister Ministry 