A well-known phrase in Christianity is “The joy of the Lord is my strength.” Numerous songs have been written about it. We say it to motivate ourselves and other people. What does it actually mean, though? What kind of strength is being discussed? A relationship with God is based on the joy of the Lord.
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The Joy Of The Lord In The Bible
Nehemiah 8 “Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and teacher of the Law, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to them all, “This day is holy to the Lord your God. Do not mourn or weep.” For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law. Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
What Is The Joy Of The Lord?
People’s lifestyles and actions were out of compliance with the law when Ezra was reading it to them, which caused sorrow. However, they were told to rejoice instead of being chastised and punished because of “the joy of the Lord.”
Israel’s descendants weren’t ever renowned for having immaculate behaviour. They had a reputation for being God’s people. He owned them. He cherished them.
After years of exile, His people were eventually brought back together with Him. Why wouldn’t God be joyful now that His cherished people were back? Jesus recounts three instances of lost objects being found in Luke 15: a sheep, a coin, and a son. All three come to a happy conclusion when what was lost is discovered. The reconnection or union brings God joy.
How Does The Joy Of The Lord Provide Strength?
Due to their disregard for the commandment, the children of Israel wept and suffered regrettably. They felt utterly cut off from God. However, the Bible informs us that love is capable of covering a wide range of sins.
The Bible says in Zephaniah 3: 17 that “For the LORD your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.
Psalm 16:11 “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand”.
Isaiah 12:3 “With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation”.
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What Does The Joy Of The Lord Is Our Strengths Mean?
“The joy of the Lord is our strength,” is much earned when we accepted God’s righteousness by grace that binds us to go together so we can enjoy His presence around us.
“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17).
“…those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ!” (Romans 5:17).
“You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence” (Acts 2:28).
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