"The joy of the Lord is my strength"
It comes from an Old Testament Bible verse in Nehemiah. Exiled Jews returned to Jerusalem only to find their beloved city in ruins, specifically the wall that was crucial to their safety. Nehemiah, the king's cupbearer, was granted permission to return to Jerusalem and re-build the wall.
Nehemiah's resume reads well: he went from cupbearer to construction manager to governor. Read the short book bearing his name. It's fascinating. Take note of the leadership skills it took to complete the complex project. It's like Business Management 101.
He was a leader of integrity who insisted the needs of the poor be met. He, himself, declined the food allotted to him as governor so it could be shared. His prayer in chapter 1 demonstrates his reliance on God.
After the wall was completed, Nehemiah gathered the people so Ezra could read them the Law of Moses. They had neglected God and were called to repentance. They were grief-stricken when they realized their sin.
Instead of admonishing them, Governor Nehemiah, Ezra the priest, and the Levites told the people to rejoice and see the day as a joyful, sacred one--the day they returned to their God. Nehemiah even told them to host a party!
"Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is sacred to our Lord. Do not grieve for the joy of the Lord is your strength." (Nehemiah 8:10 NIV)
I love the praise song that reflects that sentiment voiced by Nehemiah. I've seen it make a difference in my days.
The next time you need joy in your life, sing the song this way:
The joy of the Lord is my strength.
The joy of the Lord is my strength.
The joy of the Lord is my strength.
The joy of the Lord is my strength.
Joy is sometimes present and sometimes elusive. Days are sunny and days are overcast.
The next time you're having a difficult day, repeat this uplifting song. It works.
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