We Can Share The Joy of The Lord
A few weeks back, my family and I were walking in New York City when we came across a young man who appeared to be homeless. At first, we simply walked past him. Honestly, I barely noticed him – which is sad but true. But then, a few steps past him, the Holy Spirit prompted me to go back and talk with him to see what he needed and to encourage him.
We circled back, just trying to meet him where he was, in his spiritually broken and physically cold place. He said his biggest need was a warm coat. So, we bought him a coat and some warm clothes. Before we parted, I encouraged him. I looked him in the eye and told him, “There are better days ahead for you. Don’t be defined by these days and your hard times. God has a plan and purpose for you. It won’t always be this way.” We prayed together, and then, with tears in his eyes, he said, “That’s what my dad would have said.”
I’m not telling you this story to tell you that I’m awesome or always get it right. Remember, I walked right past the young man at first! I can only pass along encouragement to others because so many have done it for me. I grew up without a strong relationship with my father, but God continually provided men for me to look up to. They paved the way for me, and now (when I listen and pay attention!) I get to do that for others.
We can only pass along what we have for ourselves. If we’re depleted, we won’t have the time, energy, or encouragement to offer our family, friends, and employees. But, on the other hand, when we take time to connect with God and others, we’ll be more sensitive to the needs around us. For me, this all starts with studying the Bible, praying, and listening to the Lord.
The joy of the Lord is our strength
For the last couple of weeks, I’ve been encouraging us with the story of Nehemiah and Ezra and how they handled the Israelites homecoming after the Babylonian exile. You can read about it here and here. And the conclusion of this passage is where it gets really good:
And Nehemiah continued, “Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength!”...So the people went away to eat and drink at a festive meal, to share gifts of food, and to celebrate with great joy because they had heard God’s words and understood them.
Nehemiah 8:10-11 NLT
The people had spent time in God’s Word and then celebrated together. We receive strength and joy when we prioritize time with God.
When we are encouraged, we can share with others
As the Israelites celebrated, they shared what they had with others (Nehemiah 8:11). When you and I choose to spend time in God’s Word and with others, we’ll be better equipped to share with others.
As we spend time in God’s Word, in prayer, and the presence of God, we’ll experience the true joy that exists. When we thank Him for His love and goodness, we’ll have hope regardless of what the news headlines say and the challenges we face. God is on our side and will supply everything we need. So let us each connect with Him, so He can lead us to connect with others in their time of need.