In the last portion of Nehemiah 10:9 (ESV) a divine secret is revealed: “And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Although we can be made happy by many things, it is always temporal and dependent upon circumstances. This is something very different. It is a force from heaven that is not dependent upon human circumstances, in fact, the Joy of the Lord changes circumstances! The joy of the LORD is His Joyimparted to us. It is Eternal Joy, His Joy: “The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, He will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, He will joy over thee with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17 (KJV). Imagine that, The LORD God Almighty sitting on the throne of heaven joyfully singing over His people. But it’s not a dream, it is what He does! Father, may I never settle for circumstantial joy! Flood my heart and life with YOUR JOY.
A serious pursuit of godliness requires an equally serious renunciation of worldliness. Too often, we measure spirituality with false scales. While being wisely selective with our public vices we are less so with our private attitudes and perspectives. In reality, it is the thoughts and intents of the heart where the greatest battles must be waged; our actions will ultimately align with the condition of our hearts. Lord God, You know me inside out, You are not fooled by human facades. Plow my heart with Your Word and Spirit and leave nothing unturned. Refresh my inward man that I may outwardly glorify You in all places at all times.
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