¹⁰ He continued: “Go, eat rich foods and drink sweet drinks, and allot portions to those who had nothing prepared; for today is holy to our Lord. Do not be saddened this day, for rejoicing in the Lord is your strength!”

Nehemiah 8

The context of this scripture is fascinating!

The exiles had returned to Jerusalem, rebuilt the city and Temple. During the celebration that followed the prophet read from scripture for a few hours. The presence of God fell on the crowd to such an extent, the crowd was overcome with sadness, weeping openly over their sins and the sins of their fathers. They felt true remorse for hurting a loving and holy God. 

But the priests declared, “no! Move forward! This day is holy, a celebration of God’s forgiveness and saving Grace, He had restored what the people’s sin had lost. The message here? One is this: God’s word brings conviction, remorse, repentance. That is painful and emotional. Yet, we dare not stay there… For living in that remorse and pain is weakness! Once we repent, truly repent, then celebrate! 

Leave the past behind and accept God’s restoration with joy, for that is what makes us strong. Depression can set in if we don’t follow this simple truth. It is joy that carries us from repentance to restoration, joy that prevents wallowing in the guilt of our past. God says to us, rejoice! 

Carry his joy in our heart to be strong and said firm in this life.