The phrase "The joy of the Lord is my strength" from Nehemiah 8:10 (NIV) suggests an extraordinary kind of joy that originates from God, a joy that is sustaining and empowering. Unlike happiness, which often depends on external circumstances, this joy is steadfast, rooted in the knowledge and experience of God's goodness and faithfulness.
In challenging times, when our own strength seems to falter, joy becomes our lifeline. It's not a fleeting emotion but a deep-seated state of being. It's the reassurance that, in God's presence, there is fullness of joy, and in His sovereign hands, we find the fortitude to continue.
As carriers of this joy, we become conduits of strength, not just for ourselves but for our communities. It's a reminder that our inner well-being doesn't have to mirror the chaos of the world because, in the Lord, we find an unshakeable joy that becomes our strength.
Quote
Joy is one of the strongest aspects of a faith-filled life.
Prayer
Lord, thank You that there is Joy in Your Kingdom. Amen.
Action Point
What are the ten things you can be joyful about today?
Copyright notices
(NIV) Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Use in other publications
You can freely use this devotional personally, in your Church or Ministry when including this notice. Copyright © Carl Brettle. Subscribe for free via www.imani.org
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