The Joy of the LORD

​Nehemiah 8:9-10 ~ “And Nehemiah, who was the governor, and Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, ‘This day is holy to the LORD your God; do not mourn or weep.’ For all the people wept as they heard the words of the Law. Then he said to them, ‘Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our LORD. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.’”
 
The wall of Jerusalem had been rebuilt. The Word of the LORD had been recovered and Ezra the scribe stood before the people and read from the Book of the Law from morning till midday. All of this was done in the providential direction of the Almighty and the people were part of God’s restoration of the chief city of Israel. It was a time to celebrate, a time to rejoice with exceeding joy. Yet, as the Law of God was read in the hearing of all the people, and they understood what they heard, a great sorrow broke out upon them.
 
In the middle of our text today we read this statement, “For all the people wept as they heard the words of the Law.” And such is the convicting work of the word of God when it tells of the condition of man. These who had rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem were former captives to Israel’s enemies. Perhaps, as the Book of the Law was read, they came to Leviticus 26:38, “And you shall perish among the nations, and the land of your enemies shall eat you up.” The LORD Almighty had already determined that the rebellion of Israel would cost them dearly and they would be taken into captivity. Now, as the words were read by Ezra, they understood—their captivity was God’s just and righteous punishment. Who would not weep when such truth is launched directly at the heart. And, dear Christian, let our hearts weep when the power of God’s word falls upon us and we sense the displeasure of the LORD who saved us. Let us heed the instruction of James 4:9-10, “Be wretched and mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.”
 
But this is not where it ended for the people of Israel, and it is not where it ends for you. If weeping was all we could do, if no other word of encouragement or message of hope came, it would be no less than we deserve. But God will show us something greater—a joy everlasting. Psalm 30:5 declares, “For his anger is but for a moment, and his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.” Our text today concludes with this great statement: “And do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.” There is no sorrow so great that the Almighty will not dry the tears of the penitent heart. He longs to show mercy and would shower us with His kindness if we but return to Him. It is God’s delight to show mercy. Micah 7:18 says, “Who is a God like you, pardoning iniquity and passing over transgression for the remnant of his inheritance? He does not retain his anger forever, because he delights in steadfast love.” It brings God great joy when His mercy is received. There is rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents (see Luke 15:7).
 
As we look upon the final statement of our text, let is wash your heart with encouragement. So often we find that our hearts are weighted down with the grief that hits us from God’s word. But, beloved, if you have experienced that godly grief, then know that it leaves no regret. 2 Corinthians 7:10 states, “For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death.” This is where the children of Israel have found themselves. They have come to the conclusion of the great task set before them by the LORD. They have returned to the land of their forefathers and have been blessed by God. Now is not the time for weeping, for God’s joy rests upon them. God was delighted in their faithfulness and obedience, and, dear ones, He is delighted in yours as well. Nehemiah commanded a celebration to be had by all, “Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our LORD.” Even in the Book of the Law, the LORD established a promise of restoration if His people would repent (see Leviticus 26:40-42). Surely Ezra had read that portion, and we must as well. Our God is so gracious and kind, for those who humble themselves before the LORD, He will lift them up.
 
Remember, the joy of the LORD is our strength. God takes delight in our humble repentance and our faithful obedience, and He will strength those who love and serve Him.
 
In His Grace,
Pastor Michael

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