“…Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared….” – Nehemiah 8:10 (NIV)
The dictionary defines joy as a feeling of extreme happiness or cheerfulness, especially related to the acquisition or expectation of something good. As Christians, however, our joy should never be dependent on external factors; that type of joy is all too fleeting.
We know that life will always have its high and low seasons. Wouldn’t it be terrible to have to wait until the high season comes to experience joy? But glory to God, we have access to a joy that is far superior, one that is rooted in Christ. Hallelujah!
True joy is rooted in who Christ is and not our current circumstances. According to Kenneth Ortiz, ‘biblical joy’ is a feeling of good pleasure and happiness that is dependent on who Jesus is rather than on who we are or what is happening around us. Joy comes from the Holy Spirit, abiding in God’s presence and from hope in His word.’ This means that true joy doesn’t just fall upon us. It is a constant decision to stay in God’s presence, meditate upon, and truly believe His Word in both good and bad times.
God’s Word is not lacking in Scriptures that can immediately bring us hope in our low times, and neither is it lacking in Scriptures that help us to rejoice in the good times. In our bad times, we can say, “Bless the Lord, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name!” (Psalm 103:1 – NKJV). In our good times, we can do the same. God is always worthy of praise regardless of our circumstances.
So, just like Nehemiah, I encourage you: “…This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.” Make a conscious decision today to spend time in God’s presence and experience His joy.
Read: Isaiah 40:31; 1 Peter 5:7
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 104:19-30; 2 Corinthians 3:7-18; 2 Chronicles 35:20-27; 2 Chronicles 36
