There is a story behind this verse, but there is a point I would like to highlight from this particular verse.  David a man of God was facing great danger yet somehow he was able to encourage himself.

Just yesterday, I started the day feeling joyful.  Later in the day all that changed with just one event.  I was drained, tired of having to deal with the injustices being served out by two ‘professed Christians’.  However the word of God resonated in my mind from Nehemiah 8:10b, “...for the joy of the LORD is your strength!"

I had to look to the facts (the Word of God) for strength; there was no time to focus on feelings.

Friends we all will have ‘bad’ days, ‘frustrating’ days, ‘distressing’ days and those days or moments may be as a result of a ‘brother’ or ‘sister’ in the Lord.  Let us not see it as an attack but more so an opportunity to seek God’s word; God’s word which brings comfort and has the power to lift our spirit.

Sometimes we become too dependent on people or things to make us happy when God wants to bless us with His joy and His peace that is unimaginable. 

PONDER – Who is getting to you and causing you to feel stressed out?  Are they worth you losing your joy? Are you driven by feelings or the truth of God’s word?  Who do you run to when you feel attacked?  Are you able to encourage yourself in times of distress?

PRACTICE-  Stay close to the word of God.  Read His truths daily.  Pray sincerely that you will allow the joy of the Lord to surpass any attack to your feelings.  Use the word of God whether in the form of scripture or song to soothe your fears and calm your spirit.

PRAYER – Father thank You that I can run to the truth of Your word any time, and find comfort for my wounded spirit.

PASSAGE Philippians 4:7, “Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”NLT

Ke lisaspeaks 240112

www.kelisaspeaks.com