WEDNESDAY June 21, 2017

The Joy of the Lord is Your Strength
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 our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.”-Nehemiah 8:10

Nehemiah and the leaders had encouraged the people to enjoy what God was doing among them. This day was holy, a time of celebration and rejoicing; not a time for the people to be sorrowful.  They should rejoice and delight in their restored relationship with God.

When our church service is completed, I encouraged people to fellowship. Why? The people begin to open their hearts as they share with each other how God spoke to them through the message. In their time of fellowship, they begin to rejoice––I love that.

God does not want us to be sad when we face hard trials in life. Knowing that our God will help us to overcome our circumstances, we should rejoice! Jesus was to be crucified on the cross; but He still had joy. Hebrews 12:2 tells us to look to Him as our example:

…looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 

Jesus had the joy of knowing He would be reunited with the Father after His death on the cross (John 17: 5). Even though we must endure trials; remember God is still on the throne! James 1:2-3 encourages believers: My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.

Joy is delight at God's grace which enables us to endure our trials.
~George Seevers~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!