There are times when the Spirit and the Word convict us and we are filled with guilt and sorrow. Shame over sins and shortcomings causes our heads to hang, our hearts to grieve, and our shoulders to sag.  

The realization of God’s goodness beyond our foolishness can make us want to hide our faces.

This was the case in the times of Ezra the prophet and Nehemiah the  governor, when a remnant was allowed to return to Jerusalem to rebuild during the exile. 

While Nehemiah focused on building the walls of the city, Ezra focused on building the people up – chastening and encouraging them with the word God. At the reading of the Scriptures, the people wept.

Fortunately, the people’s hearts were tender at the hearing of God’s

word. While they were blessed to return from exile and to rebuild Jerusalem, there was a deep sense of remorse as they realized that it was their own rebelliousness that caused the ruins upon which they stood.

Amid their tears and sorrow, however, Nehemiah responded to their with this surprising encouragement:

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.” 

Nehemiah 8:10

What a surprising joy it is to know that even in discipline God proves God’s love for us!

Are you in a transition? Rebuilding or repairing a relationship?  Getting up from a nasty fall? Healing from some past failure?  Grace abounds!

Don’t be discouraged and do not be grieved!  This is the day the LORD has made!  And…

‘… the joy of the LORD is your strength!’  

Good morning, I love you all!

ihs,

just adam