When I read Nehemiah 8:10 — “Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength” — I am reminded that joy is not something fragile or fleeting. It is a gift from God, a deep well that never runs dry, even when life feels heavy.
There are days when sorrow or worry seems closer than joy. The people in Nehemiah’s time knew that feeling. As they listened to God’s Word, they were struck with grief at how far they had wandered. Yet God’s message to them was not condemnation, but encouragement: Don’t stay in despair — My joy will be your strength.
That truth speaks to me today. Joy doesn’t mean pretending everything is fine or ignoring the struggles we face. It means knowing that God is present, faithful, and loving in every circumstance. Joy is anchored in Him.
Paul reminds us in Galatians 5 that joy is one of the fruits of the Spirit. I can’t force joy any more than I can make fruit grow by tugging on a branch. Joy grows in me when I stay connected to God — through prayer, worship, Scripture, and quiet trust in His promises.
I’ve seen how joy can change the way I face difficulties. It doesn’t take away the hard things, but it gives me strength to endure them. It shifts my focus from my problems to God’s presence. It reminds me that His story is bigger than my pain.
Even Jesus endured the cross “for the joy set before Him” (Hebrews 12:2). If He could face suffering with joy, then surely His Spirit can give me strength in my trials too.
So today, I choose joy. Not because life is perfect, but because God is good.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the gift of joy. Help me to remember that true joy comes from You, not from my circumstances. When I feel weak or overwhelmed, let Your joy be my strength. Plant it deep in my heart so it grows into peace, courage, and hope. May Your Spirit fill me with joy today, and may that joy overflow to others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
P. S. This morning, our family grieves because a dear member of the family passed away in the early hours of today. I go to the doctor this afternoon for a checkup. I am reminded of the sting of death for this family member was younger than me so the joy of the Lord is my strength each and everyday!! God is with us!!!
The Curious Pilgrims 