Behold The Savior - Day 23
🎄 Day 23 of Advent
Week 4: The Joy of Christ 🎁✨
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Today’s Devotional: Joy That Strengthens
Tuesday, December 23
“Do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10
These words were spoken after a long and painful period of exile. There was spiritual drought and broken walls. When the people of Israel heard the Word of God again, they were overwhelmed with guilt. They wept. But instead of allowing despair to take over, Nehemiah told them to rejoice. The Word of God was not meant to crush them, but to strengthen them.
The joy of the Lord does not ignore sin, but overcomes it. It does not deny brokenness, but redeems it. The joy of Christ is not shallow cheerfulness, but strength for weary hearts. As Christmas approaches, you might feel more exhausted than joyful. Be encouraged by the Word of God and rest in the joy of the Lord.
The joy of Christ is far deeper than seasonal happiness. It is strength for weary souls. It is balm and the solution for guilty hearts. It steadies us when our emotions rise and fall. As you approach Christmas, remember that joy is not something you have to fake. It is something that flows from God’s work in our life.
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Reflection:
• Where do you feel weary or discouraged right now?
• How can you rest in the joy of the Lord today?
Prayer:
Lord, thank You that the joy of the Lord is my strength. When I feel weak or weighed down, remind me that You have come to restore and renew. In Jesus’ name, amen.