Joy of the Lord is Your Strength

Joy of the Lord is my Strength

 

 

My niece and I had been clearing out her very sick mother’s mobile, (my sister) taking many van loads to the Salvation Army and food and women’s clothing to our local Hope Center.  Lastly three van loads of garbage were hauled to the community garbage and we were both exhausted. We had only made a dent and next week we would begin again. 

Back at the mobile, suddenly my heart began to pound and shortness of breath hit me hard.  I backed into a soft chair and asked my niece to bring me one of the bottles of water.  My strength drained and I told my niece, I think I will leave as this was enough work for today.  My niece agreed.   

The weakness continued for several days, and the Lord gave me some instructions along with the Verse, Nehemiah 8:10 “The Joy of the Lord is my Strength.” 

You may think this silly, but God told me to stop certain vitamins and to begin a teaspoon of molasses each day.   

On Sunday, at our Bible Study our teacher Linda, told us our lesson for today was on Rejoicing.  I was amazed how God guided her to bring this lesson (just for me J)

She was reading from 1 Peter chapter one. 

1 Peter 1:6-7 (NASB) In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 

The word REJOICE – To exalt, rejoice – to be exceedingly glad.

At all times, we can count on who Jesus is, but we cannot always depend on others.

Peter was urging the Believers to rejoice anyway, even though times were tough.  He was exhibiting genuine Faith in the face of adversity.  “When I am weak, He is strong.”  Rejoice with Joy unspeakable. 

I Peter 1:8  Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory,

Psalms 16:7  I will bless the Lord, who hath given me counsel:  my reins also instruct me in the night seasons. 

David was bringing the ark into the Tabernacle and he sang a song of praise.  1Chronicles 16:27 “Glory and Honor are in his presence; strength and gladness are in his place. 

Trials are going to happen every so often – that is just life !  Peter says, you have been grieved by trials – We do not rejoice because you are having problems, however rejoice because God is with you during the struggle. 

James 1:2-4 encourages us that trials produce patience!  My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,  knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.  But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. 

Let God use trouble that Satan puts on you - - to prove His Word is True.

 

Rejoice and be Glad !