True Joy Equals Strength

Written by Mr. Mike House

If you grew up in church, like I did, you may remember a simple chorus we used to sing in the last century. "The Joy of the Lord is My Strength."

Have you ever considered that true joy is synonymous with strength? Strength for what?

Nehemiah 8:9-12 NKJV

And Nehemiah, who was the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, "This day is holy to the LORD your God; do not mourn nor weep." For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the Law. 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."

How many times have you cried while reading your Bible? Tears of repentance, or memories. Tears of joy because you realize Christ has redeemed you? Maybe, you feel that God has forgotten you and you shed tears.

After the walls and gates of Jerusalem were finished, Ezra read Genesis thru Deuteronomy. From daylight to midday the people stood for the reading.

All the people wept.

I have heard many times, "tears are a language God understands." No matter the reason for your tears, God understands. In sorrow we can have joy. In trials, we can have joy. In every circumstance of our life, we can experience the joy of the Lord and have strength to face life triumphantly.

You know emotions are fickle. But, in the moment, we tend to forget things we know are true. Your personality and life experience have an impact on how you respond to situations. Realize that God understands your human frailty because Jesus experienced every emotion imaginable. He has true empathy for your feelings.

You, as a child of God, are able to have joy. This joy gives you strength to press in to receive His promises. Knowing that The Father is eager to answer your prayer and your desires according to His will, is reason enough to have joy. This joy gives you strength.

1 Peter 5:7 NKJV - "casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you."

When you know that your children, spouse, etc.. love and support you, whether you made a great decision or a not so good decision, you can 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥 that support. That 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡 to keep going. The Father is right beside you. Encouraging you, strengthening you. The Holy Spirit is bringing Scripture to your remembrance. Renewing your joy and giving you strength. "

Maybe you need a little more joy today. Read God's love letter to you. His Word will give you strength.