The Joy Of The Lord Is Our Strength

-July 8, 2022-

Good morning, happy Friday,

“Then he said to them, ‘Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to the Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.’”

(Nehemiah 8:10).

The people of Israel had just come through the seventy year Babylonian captivity. God brought that about because they rejected Him, disobeyed, and worshipped idols. God promised to bring them back to their land and He did. It had been years since they heard the Word of God publicly read to them and all the people wept when heard it. But this day was not a day for tears of sorrow, but rather joy, holiness, and celebration.

They rebuilt the temple and the walls of Jerusalem. They built homes and it was time to live for the Lord and to enjoy the blessings God had for them. The leaders told them to “go their way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those nothing is prepared.” All these words speak of the good land and God’s abundance. All were to share in the blessings, even those poorer people for whom nothing is prepared.

The early Christians were known for their love for each other and for sharing with those in need. They suffered and rejoiced together as one in Christ. They didn’t rebel or fight against the government but fought the good fight of faith against the devil, preaching the gospel and living fully for the Lord. Like our text today, they found the joy of the Lord to be their strength.

Joy is different from happiness: joy is based on the inner relationship we have with our Lord Jesus Christ and does not change; happiness is based on happenings, which constantly fluctuate. Joy is present, even coexistent, with sorrow, pain, and trouble. Joy gives us the strength to overcome all obstacles. It is not in us but it is the joy of the Lord. We must choose to rejoice in the Lord. Paul wrote, “Rejoice always” (1 Thessalonians 5:16).

Joy overflows from thankful hearts just like a river that overflows its banks. Our joy is sincere and without pretense. Joy comes as naturally as breathing to the child of God. We realize that everything that happens to us comes from the Lord and He gives sufficient grace to handle them. We live in this world but we are not of it. Still, we must buy and sell, eat and drink, go to school, save and plan for retirement. None of us knows how long we will be here on this earth. Joy in Jesus will give us strength and see us through things.

May we rejoice in the Lord in all circumstances. Lets be upbeat not down trodden. Stay safe and healthy.

Rejoicing in Jesus,

Dean