God’s joy is our strength. The prophet Nehemiah recorded these famous words in Nehemiah Chapter 8. What does it really mean when we say that the joy of the Lord is our strength? And how do we live in that Joy? Today’s devotional explores these two questions.
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: 10, NIV
Nehemiah said these words to the Israelite people because as God’s word was read to them, they started weeping. Why? God’s Word was not initially clear to them.
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.
Nehemiah 8:9, NIV
After the Word was read and its meaning was explained, the people now understood and went away rejoicing.
Then all the people went away to eat and drink, to send portions of food and to celebrate with great joy, because they now understood the words that had been made known to them.
Nehemiah 8:12, NIV
This chapter (Nehemiah 8) gives us three lessons on how to live in God’s joy:
1. Understanding God’s word is the first step to finding joy and strength in God
The people were sad when they heard God’s word but did not understand what exactly it meant for them. Sometimes the same thing happens to us. We read the Bible but do not fully understand how it applies to our everyday lives. There is a solution though! Jesus left us a Helper, the Holy Spirit. If we allow Him, He will help us to understand how God’s word. We will start to discover how every single verse can give direction and answers to our daily lives.
And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener), to be with you forever:
The Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannot receive [and take to its heart] because it does not see Him or know Him,
But you know Him because He (the Holy Spirit) remains with you continually and will be in you.
John 14:16-17 (AMP)
Reflection Question: Do you ask the Holy Spirit to help you understand the Bible? Will you ask Him every time before you read the Bible?
2. Obeying God’s word fills us with joy and strength
In Nehemiah 8:13-17, the people learned from God’s Word that they were to build temporary shelters during the festival. When they understood this, they went out and built the shelters. Because they obeyed and built the shelters, there was great joy during the festival.
The whole company that had returned from exile built temporary shelters and lived in them. From the days of Joshua son of Nun until that day, the Israelites had not celebrated it like this. And their joy was very great.
Nehemiah 8:17, NIV
The same applies to us today. The Bible reminds us in Psalm 119:2 that obedience leads to joy.
Joyful are those who obey his laws and search for him with all their hearts
Psalm 119:2, NLT
When we obey what God asks us to do, He gives us His joy. Even in hard times, we receive quiet peace and hope because we know that God is in control. God always works it out for our good.
Reflection Question: Is there an area where you need to fully obey God? Will you ask Him to help you obey fully?
3. Spending time with God and His word helps us to live in the joy of the Lord
We need to read our Bibles and have regular quiet time to know what God says about our lives. Consistency and application is the key to lasting joy in the Lord. We might not enjoy following a schedule, but even the most flexible people have daily habits, such as making coffee in the morning or checking social media on the way to work. Even five minutes of reading God’s word daily help. I encourage you to start building a Bible reading habit today.
“But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!….
…..I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!”
John 15: 7, 9-11, NLT
If you need a place to start, this post has 20 downloadable Bible verses about the joy of the Lord. Try reading and memorizing one each day.
Reflection Question: Do you have a daily Bible reading habit? If not, will you start one today?
God wants to fill you up with His joy and strength today. Will you let Him?
In this post, explore four ways to be truly grateful even in tough times.
Discover more from 10 Minute Family Devotionals
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