The Joy Of The Lord In My Life

"The Joy Of The Lord" is a great statement. We Christians say that we possess the joy of the Lord in our hearts! What do we mean by the "Joy of the Lord"? This statement is used in Nehemiah 8:10 and it is from this passage of Scripture that we are able to discern the meaning of the joy of the Lord.

In Nehemiah 8 the Jewish people are celebrating the Feast of New Moon as directed by God in Numbers 28:11-15. They asked that the Law of God be read to them and this request is granted. Ezra, the Scribe, reads the Law and the Levites explain the Law. As a result the people are deeply grieved because of their sin against the Lord. In verse 10 Ezra and the Levites remind the Jews that the day is holy to the Lord and they are not to be mourning or weeping. In fact, the last sentence in verse 10 is, "And do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength."

The Hebrew word for "joy" is defined as "a joy founded on the feeling of communion with the LORD"(Keil-Delitzsch). The joy of a believer is based on his/her relationship with the Lord and not on outward circumstances or situations.

The Hebrew word for "strength" is defined as refuge. Therefore, the joy of the Lord is our refuge from the battle in our hearts between walking in the Spirit and not fulfilling the desires of the flesh, Galatians 5:16-17.

First of all the joy comes in our relationship with the Lord when we understand who He is. For this understanding we turn to Exodus 34:6-7 to see who LORD revealed Himself to Moses as "merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin... What an awesome God we have who is committed and faithful to us. Who forgives us of our sin and guilt and our rebellion against Him. Realizing this truth will flood our hearts with joy.

How does one establish a relationship with the LORD in order to have this joy in their hearts? In Matthew 11:20-27 Jesus is condemning those who refuse to repent of their sin but in verses 28-30 He promises rest to those who are burdened by their sin and desire spiritual rest. When one comes to Christ the condemnation on us due to our sin is removed and we have forgiveness from the Lord.

Maintaining that joy is explained to us by Jesus in John 15:10-11. As we remain in Christ and obey His teaching not only do we have His joy but that joy is complete in us. Therefore, the Joy of the Lord in my life depends on what the Lord is doing in my life and not on my outward circumstances. I have a responsibility to be an obedient servant in order to experience His joy to the fullest.

It is my prayer that you have the "Joy Of The Lord In Your Life".