Joy Gems

How Loud is our Rejoicing?

(Nehemiah 12:43) "And on that day they offered great sacrifices, rejoicing because God had given them great joy. The women and children also rejoiced. The sound of rejoicing in Jerusalem could be heard far away."

I had to read this chapter in context to see what this was all about. The people that had returned and rebuilt the temple and the wall of Jerusalem were dedicating it with mass choirs singing as they marched around up on the wall and rejoined and went into the temple to praise God in the dedication service. That was one glad day for the Israelite people. They threw themselves wholeheartedly into expressing their joy.

And that amounts to the kind of worship that pleases God, doesn't it? I've been to some cheerful anniversary services, but I don't think I've ever really seen such mass joy in a community. One where everybody worships and sings for joy to God. In fact, I can't recall where I've heard of that happening in my lifetime anywhere in the world. Which tells me it must happen very rarely as well.

Well. I see that I need to offer more joyful praise to my dear Lord Jesus, and God our loving Father every day. He has done great things for me every day. Just yesterday He helped me get over a headache in just one morning, instead of the usual full day or two days! I sure do appreciate that! Today I have a clear head and mind, and my spirit is joyful and glad. If I get going, I can name many more blessings I have received.

Here's another question to consider: When have you or I rejoiced and praised God so loudly that we could be heard all over our home town or city? That's what the women and children did in Nehemiah 12. Are we too embarrassed to praise God aloud?

PRAYER: You know what, Lord? I'd like to praise You more, and I'd love to organize such an event! (And now my imagination is off and running!) If You'll help me, I'll become a more vocal praiser-giver and worshiper of You. I'll try to teach others to praise you with exuberant joy as well!

Custom Search