Nehemiah 8:10 reads, “… the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
This well-known phrase is full of meaning yet simple in its application. Early one morning, I witnessed something that illustrates it beautifully. As a light rain fell, I noticed a man running down the street. He was in good shape and, by the look of his pace, took running seriously. What caught my attention was his companion—a German Shorthair Pointer.
As the man ran, you could tell his dog was excited to be alongside. The Pointer’s stride seemed effortless as the runner pounded the pavement. He would look up every few steps, seemingly sending a message of sheer delight. Tongue out, head up, back straight. If dogs could smile, this dog was. And why shouldn’t he? He was doing what he was designed to do—staying close by his master’s side for its pure pleasure and, with every step, becoming happier and happier.
I often think our Christian experience is less than God intended because we allow little things to keep us from spending time with Jesus. And when that happens, we lose confidence, our pace slows, and we begin looking at our surroundings rather than looking up at Him. Yet, when we’re near Jesus, there is a glide to our step. Life becomes enjoyable, and we’re happy to be by His side.
Is the joy of the Lord your strength today? If not, determine to follow Jesus, rain or shine. And before you know it, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find yourself running with Him—delighted, joyful, and strong.
