Within a short period of time, God would be silent for the next 400 years. Ezra, Nehemiah and Malachi were contemporaries in a time of Israel’s subjugation and captivity. Nehemiah mourned the devastation of Jerusalem, and in God’s sovereignty he was allowed to return, uniting a remnant of Israel to complete the task of rebuilding the wall. Once there was physical security, the people needed spiritual inspiration. Ezra read the law of Moses to the people. The remnant wept and repented. In today’s verse, Nehemiah told them to let their grief turn to rejoicing and to trust in the Lord.

Do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.

Nehemiah 8:10

So it is for you. Understand where your unbelief has caused you to doubt God’s truth and presence in your life. You will have “seasonable sorrows…but we should never lose sight of all that God has done for us. It is our privilege to walk joyfully before the Lord.” (Rev. Charles Simeon)

It was once said that weeping will cleanse, but joy is the strengthener. Pray that as you study God’s Word, your heart will be purified and your faith empowered. Then intercede for the leaders and citizens of this nation…that their repentance will turn to joy in the Lord.

Recommended Reading: I John 1:1-9