The Strength of a Joyful Spirit

 

Scripture:

“Do not grieve, for the joy of ADONAI is your strength.”

— Nehemiah 8:10 (CJB)

 

Reflection:

There are days when the body is worn thin, when sleep is short, and when responsibilities stack up faster than our energy does. Yesterday was beautiful, emotional, holy, and long—my daughter entering into covenant, my family gathered, the laughter of my grandson filling my home. And even though today my body feels the weight of it all, my spirit is light.

 

That’s because joy strengthens what fatigue tries to weaken. True joy—God-breathed joy—is not dependent on rest, routines, or perfect conditions. It comes from knowing that God is moving, blessing, shaping, and weaving beauty into your life. It comes from seeing love flourish, family grow, and God’s goodness unfold right before your eyes.

 

When the spirit is joyful, the body finds strength it didn’t know it had. That’s why I can rise early, walk into His house, and serve both services with energy that doesn’t belong to you—it comes from Him.

 

Encouragement:

Do you have a joyful spirit today? Or are you just tired?

 

If you’re tired, ask Him to renew you. If you’re empty, let His joy refill you.

Because the joy of ADONAI isn’t just a feeling—it’s fuel.

And it can carry you farther than your strength ever could.

 

—

Rev Carlos Figueroa

TheFreeBible.Org.