Nehemiah 6-8: Do Not Grieve

God's temple had been rebuilt, and now, because of Nehemiah's dedication and perseverance despite many obstacles, a great wall now protected the city of Jerusalem and its people. The people of God gathered together to hear His law read-- this was likely the first time many of them had heard the complete law read since before their captivity. 

Now, as God’s law was read, the people began to weep...

Nehemiah 8:9, The Message

The Israelites had been in captivity for an entire generation. It had been so long since they had heard God's law, many of them were sure to have forgotten much of it. So when they heard it-- they knew they had not been faithful to keeping it. They knew they were disgraceful and filthy before their holy God. 

But God did not want His people to live in guilt and despair-- through Ezra the prophet, He said,

Go back to your homes, and prepare a feast. Bring out the best food and drink you have, and welcome all to your table, especially those who have nothing. This day is special. It is sacred to our Lord. Do not grieve over your past mistakes. Let the Eternal’s own joy be your protection!

Nehemiah 8:10, The Message

Do not grieve over your past mistakes. Let the Eternal's own joy be your protection.

What amazing words.

I know there are so many people that need to hear these words from God today. I need to hear them today. Let His joy be your protection-- though there are failed tests and lost friendships and terrible illness and hospitals and death. Let His joy be your protection through botched finances, long hours, forgotten birthdays, and failed attempts. He does not grieve you. He doesn't wish He'd picked someone else for the job. He doesn't think less of you for your failures. He sees you, and you bring Him JOY.

May we be like the people of Israel today, who heard these words from God and understood them. May we embrace each other, despite our failures, and feast together at our Father's table. Thanking Him for the great joy that He shares with us.