Untitled Sermon
The Strength From Their Delight
“The joy of the LORD is your strength” (v. 10). The “joy of the LORD” is a joy which comes from the Word of God. And it is a joy that really strengthens us. Joy is exhilarating. It rejuvenates and re-energizes us. We need strength to live upright and to serve God faithfully. The “joy of the LORD” which comes from His Word will provide that strength. As we noted in the previous point, few experience this joy and so they are weak where it matters the most to be strong. The joys of the world do not give the great strength which the “joy of the LORD” gives. The joys of the world too often weaken us in the very places we most need strength. The “joy of the LORD” is pious joy; it strengthens character while the joys of the world can ruin our character. The “joy of the LORD” is not rooted in worldly entertainment and circumstances as is the joy of the world, but it is founded on the Scriptures. The “joy of the LORD” does not hinder our relationship with God, but the joys of the world can hinder in great ways a good relationship with God. We can rejoice in the Lord when there is nothing else to rejoice in—hence, we can have strength even in the darkest times. No wonder the Apostle Paul said to the Christians at Philippi, “Rejoice in the Lord always; and again I say, Rejoice” (Philippians 4:4). The Christians at Philippi had many problems which were brought on by their stand for Christ. But they could rejoice in Christ at any time which would give them strength to live each day.
3. The Sharing in Their Delight
“Send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy unto our Lord; neither be ye sorry … and all the people went their way … to send portions” (vv. 10, 12). Nehemiah and others who exhorted the people to rejoice and not mourn emphasized the character of this joy by instructing the people to use this joy from the Word to inspire giving gifts to the needy. Charity to the poor means their mirth was not wicked and evil like the world makes mirth. This rejoicing was not to be selfish joy—which is the only kind the world knows. It was to be a charitable joy. Instead of spending liberally on one’s own interest (which the joys of the world cause one to do), the people were to think of the needs of others. This charity will promote one’s happiness. Unselfishness does not promote sadness but joy. Selfishness, however, leads to dismalness of life.