Choose Joy

Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength (Nehemiah 8:10).

Are you going through a rough patch in your life right now? Have you felt loss or disappointment of late? In this world, we experience tribulation, but the Lord told us to cheer up because He overcomes the world. Humanity is born for adversity. We can only know complete rest and peace in the presence of our beloved Lord and friend Jesus Christ.

Jesus is a joyous person, and his attributes rub off on all those who are near Him. You must draw close to Him to catch His enthusiasm and peace. Make Him your dwelling place, and gladness will begin to grow in the garden of your heart. You will learn over time to choose joy rather than grief. Despair comes naturally to you, but joy comes supernaturally to you. The Lord can give you divine strength to pull you through every heartache. But you must be willing to trade your sorrow for His joy.

Do not grieve for the joy of the Lord is your strength. You must let go of your gloom to receive His gladness. Amid the most challenging affliction, the Lord’s affection will comfort you. When you are at your weakness, His strength will not only perfect you but protect you. What will it be, my friend? Will you choose sorrow or the joy of the Lord?