September 3

Then Nehemiah told them, “Go and eat what is rich, drink what is sweet, and send out portions to those who have nothing prepared, since today is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.” — Neh 8:10 BSB

God delights in seeing us enjoy life. He doesn’t want us walking around with long faces!

Joy is the essence of the Christian life!

Of course, we should feel sorrow when we sin. But once we confess it, truly repent, and receive God's mercy, we are to wipe away our tears and rejoice! Why shouldn’t we be happy? God has forgiven us, made us His children, and guaranteed us eternal glory!

But our joy must not be selfish. When things are going well for us, we shouldn’t forget those who are struggling. When we are happy in our homes with unbroken families, we should remember the families that are grieving. The blessings God gives us aren’t meant just for us—they’re meant to be shared. "It is more blessed to give than to receive."

People who keep everything for themselves, feasting in their homes while never considering the hungry outside, are not living the way God’s children should. The core of the Christian life is selflessness.