January 12, 2026
Daily Devotional:
“The Joy of the Lord is My Strength”
Nehemiah 8:10
"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.'"
To understand this verse, we have to look at the underlying scene in this chapter. The Israelites had just returned from exile and finished rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. As Ezra read the Law of God aloud, the people began to weep. They realized how far they had fallen from God’s standards.
But Nehemiah and Ezra stopped their mourning. They told the people that this was not a day for shame, but for celebration. They were reminded that their power to move forward didn't come from their own perfection, but from the goodness of the God who restored them.
In today’s reflection we often treat "joy" like a luxury, something we can only afford when our chores are done, our bills are paid, and our lives are in perfect order. We tend to think; I will be happy once this crisis passes. However,Nehemiah 8:10 flips that logic. Joy isn't the finish line, it’s the fuel!
The "joy of the Lord" is not a bubbly, superficial happiness based on our circumstances. It is the deep, steady confidence that God is in control, His promises are true, and His grace is sufficient. When we are exhausted or overwhelmed, we often try to grit our teeth and power through. But Nehemiah suggests a different strategy; lean into God’s character.
When you celebrate who God is, it creates a spiritual resilience that stress cannot break. Nehemiah told the people to eat the "fat" which means the best portions andshare with those who had nothing. Joy grows when it is shared. In feasting and Sharing, How can you bless someone else today? If you are dwelling on pastmistakes, remember that today is "holy to the Lord." His forgiveness is a reason to celebrate, not to hide in shame. Learn how to reframe your strength. Instead of saying "I am tired," try saying "God is good, and His joy will get me through this hour."