Do Not Grieve

This verse was highlighted to me this morning:

"Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength."

Nehemiah 8:10b

In this context I believe it is saying that when we understand what the Lord is doing/saying we don't have to be sad but can rejoice. It seems like sorrow and joy often go together but I have found that as I open my heart to feel the pain, and invite Jesus into that place, the greater the capacity to experience joy.

This chapter in Psalms is a favorite of mine and speaks of joy and sorrow, as well:

When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, 

we were like those who dreamed.

Our mouths were filled with laughter, 

our tongues with songs of joy. 

Then it was said among the nations,

"The Lord has done great things for them."

The Lord has done great things for us, 

and we are filled with joy. 

Restore our fortunes, O Lord, 

like streams in the Negev.

Those who sow with tears

will reap with songs of joy. 

Those who go out weeping,

carrying seed to sow, 

will return with songs of joy,

carrying sheaves with them.

Psalms 126

Whatever place you are in today, I bless you to fully embrace all that God has and find the joy even in the sorrow.