Today I was reading about God is my joy. One of the readings were from Neh. 8:9-12
I have been trying to encourage others as well as myself to be joyful even in the midst of trails,
adversity, or problems. Having found that when I keep my eye off the problem and onto God and His abilities, capabilities, and promises, there is no situation that does not improve. One of the by products is that I have peace and trust no matter what the problem is. This week I heard how satan tries to steal our joy, maybe because he really wants to steal our strength. If we are powerless, we can not do anything. If we have joy and strength we are much better prepared for whatever God gives us.
The joy of the LORD is my strength, The JOY OF THE LORD!
Nehemiah 8:9-12
9Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were interpreting for the people said to them, "Don't weep on such a day as this! For today is a sacred day before the LORD your God." All the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the law.
10And Nehemiah[b] continued, "Go and celebrate with a feast of choice foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don't be dejected and sad, for the joy of the LORD is your strength!"
11And the Levites, too, quieted the people, telling them, "Hush! Don't weep! For this is a sacred day." 12So the people went away to eat and drink at a festive meal, to share gifts of food, and to celebrate with great joy because they had heard God's words and understood them.