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CHAPTER 8 (ESV)

9 And Nehemiah, who was the governor, and Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, “This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn or weep.” For all the people wept as they heard the words of the Law. 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.” 11 So the Levites calmed all the people, saying, “Be quiet, for this day is holy; do not be grieved.” 12 And all the people went their way to eat and drink and to send portions and to make great rejoicing, because they had understood the words that were declared to them.

REFLECTION:

After the Israelites heard the words of the Law, they could not help but cry because they knew that they had disobeyed God and not followed His statute and judgment. However, Nehemiah and Ezra told them that they should rejoice because it was a day of celebration, a day to receive God’s grace and share the joy. Real joy is not self-centred. If we could lend a helping hand to others (even unwillingly) when we are happy, our spiritual life will grow and our heart will be filled with heavenly peace and joy. Reflect if you are always joyful in the Lord. Do you often share your joy in the Lord with others? Do you have annoyance in your heart? Are you willing to cast all your worry to God and trust that He will give you peace and joy no matter what circumstances you are facing?

PRAYER:

Thank your Heavenly Father for He let you understand you will face a lot of worry on earth. Ask God to give you a peaceful heart and help you understand the peace He gives to you is not as the peace the world gives to you. Ask the Heavenly Father to help you not to forget to share with others the sweetness from God.

HYMN:

Still – www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3wwWFsSlNQ