October 28, 2022

I woke up this morning with scripture on my mind. “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” I had to look for it because I didn’t know where to find it in the scripture. Maybe God was reminding me that he speaks in many ways, and no matter how powerful the enemy’s presence is, his voice is stronger. 

Then he said to them, “Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10

Nehemiah had just read the book of the law to the Israelites who had returned from captivity and were weeping because of their sin. But because it was a season of joy, he didn’t want them grieving. Yes, some things will make us cry, but we should remember where our strength comes from and wake up with joy in our hearts because he blessed us with salvation in Jesus. 

Our eyes can’t unsee the things we’ve seen, but we can turn and look to Jesus, and he will sanctify our hearts and give us the strength to continue through the joy we’ve found in him.