“For the Joy of the Lord is Your Strength”

Nehemiah 8:9-10 ESV
“And Nehemiah…said to all the people, “This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn or weep.” For all the people wept as they heard the words of the Law.  …for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

Explanation:
The word of God was doing its intended work. 2 Timothy 3:16 tells us that the word of God is profitable for reproof and correction. Sometimes it hurts to be reproved and corrected, and these tears were evidence of some of that pain.

The people felt sad because they were aware of their own sin and failure to God, that was the reason Jerusalem was destroyed; exteme sin! Now, Nehemiah and Ezra the priest wanted them to see God was now rebuilding His people reshaping their lives. They could walk in joy because God was doing a great work in and through them.

God is a God of love and mercy. Yes, He does judge us of our sin because He is a Holy God, a just God, and He cannot tolerate sin. Seeing our sins and realizing we are sinning is revelation. Confession and coming back to God is recovery. Receiving forgiveness and moving on brings joy.

Prayer:
Lord, You have known me, You see my ways, even when I have failed You, I know You love me. That reality may bring sorrow, but knowing You love me and forgive me, that’s true joy! In Your name Lord, Amen!