Is this a prayer anyone else can relate with in this time of chaos and uncertainty, as we all navigate dark and desperate days?

After writing these words a few months ago, I tucked it away as that joy emerged once again.

When the words of the Torah were read to God’s people in Nehemiah 8, they began to weep. In verse 9, they are told (by Nehemiah, Ezra and the Levites): “Today is kadosh (holy) to Adonai your God. Do not mourn or weep.” (TLV)

Further in v. 10 he says “For today is kadosh to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of Adonai is your strength.”

Has that often quoted scripture ever left you wondering ‘how do I get that joy?’ Let’s read on…

Verse 12 says the people then departed to eat and drink (as they were instructed), to share and to celebrate ‘with great joy’!

Why? Verse 12 then says, “…because they came to understand the words that were explained to them.”

So it is much more than just a ‘feeling’ of joy that gives us strength. When we come away from the Word with an understanding of what we read, how can we help but be FULL of the joy of our Lord?

Now the word ‘ma’uz’ is translated as strength, but it literally means a place of refuge, safety, protection of a stronghold!

I’m thinking they had a B.C. coming to Jesus moment, a bittersweet moment! A letting go of the hard truths of their past and the more wonderful truth of their future!

Drawing on HIS strength as I learn more of God’s awesome character and His redemptive love and power…is how I get thru every single day.

What does ‘having that joy’ mean to you?

Let’s keep on treadin’ on!

~kim