Does Misery Have Company

Then he said to them, “Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10

Sometime, as we grapple with our responsibilities, our relationships, and the energy it takes to maintain our “got-it-all-together” front, our concentration begins to slip. It can become so confusing and overwhelming that our joy is eventually replaced by anger, frustration, misery and discouragement.

Being positive and upbeat all the time is a lot of work. However, it’s more than worth the effort. When we put positivity into every thought and action and when we lead with joy and sew faith, we reap the benefits not just for ourselves, but those around us are also positively affected.

Leading with Joy means that our delight in the Lord is the blanket that surrounds all we do. It covers us when anger and depression threaten to derail our relationship with God, our loved ones, and ourselves. It is the God-centered joy that is present through trials and tough times, and when things just don’t make sense. It stays with us as we grow in Christ and allows us to reap the benefits of forgiveness and mercy.

Let the joy of the Lord go before you. Let it sooth the rough edges and turn your grey miserable days into days of sunshine. Put your trust in the Lord and let whatever it is just be.