The Wonders of Joy
Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength. (Nehemiah 8:10, KJV)
When Nehemiah and the Jewish leaders, who had departed Babylon to rebuild Jerusalem’s wall, said to the Jews who mourned as they heard God’s words, “the joy of the Lord is your strength”. Such divine joy in our hearts is remarkable; we’ll delve into this briefly.
The joy of the Lord emanates directly from God, touching the human heart. While every individual, whether a believer or not, can experience joy, it’s crucial to recognize that God can instill a unique, divine joy within us. David said, “You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound.” (Psalm 4:7, ESV). In the New Testament, this exceptional joy is recognized as a fruit of the Spirit. Hence, joy can either originate from normal human experiences or be a divine gift, the joy of the Lord.
The joy of the Lord is more than a fleeting emotion; it is our strength. It revitalizes and invigorates both our minds and bodies. This isn’t just a poetic idea; it’s a profound truth. God’s joy bestowed upon us shapes our thoughts, feelings, and character. It has tangible effects, influencing our overall health.
Solomon articulates this beautifully in Proverbs 17:22: “A merry heart does good like a medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones.” While joy nourishes and heals, sorrow and despair can sap our vitality.
Losing your joy isn’t just an emotional setback; it directly impacts your strength. If someone or something robs you of that joy, you are weakened and susceptible to numerous challenges. Therefore, it’s crucial to heed the Lord’s command: “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.” (Philippians 4:4, KJV).
Meditate
Do you radiate with joy? Are you reaping the rewards of the Lord’s joy, or are you struggling with the consequences of its absence?
Apply the Word
Guard your joy diligently, for it shapes your life’s trajectory (Proverbs 4:23). While God has sown the seed of joy within you, it’s your role to cultivate it. This growth is achieved through immersing yourself in the Word, praying, and walking in the Spirit.
Pray
Seek guidance from the Spirit to foster the Lord’s joy in your heart diligently.
Recommended
- Joy Cometh in the Morning
- The Oil of Joy for Mourning
- What is Joy?
- Don’t Let Anyone Take Away Your Joy
- The Joy of the Lord is Our Strength
- View All Deshen Daily Devotionals
Free Mini E-book: From Spiritual Dryness to Flourishing
