JOY AND STRENGTH

Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our LORD: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength.
(NEHEMIAH 8:10)

I meet so many Christians that complain about two things. First they complain about not being happy, and that they find themselves depressed. Second I find that they complain about not having enough strength to get through the day. My question to them and all who feel this way is why? Of course I know the answer. We’ve become immersed in a world of people who want to have others feel sorry for them. This is the best way for most of them to get attention. “If something’s wrong with me then people will pay attention to me and at least I’ll get some kind of attention”. And they say this proudly. But, there is someone else to blame. I blame the church. I blame the church for teaching God’s children that we’re supposed to be content with what we have and not expect more. I blame the church for telling people that EVERYTHING that happens to us MUST be God’s will. I blame the church for telling God’s children not to expect God to bless us or heal us and that if he wants to he will. God has promised to give us all joy and strength. So if there is something missing in your life that isn’t allow you to be full of joy and have the strength for every day then I suggest you examine your life. Is there something you want or need that would bring you happiness? Because if there is and you are totally and completely faithful (and obedient) to the Lord then there’s no reason you can’t have anything.

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you . . . I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me . . . But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
(PHILIPPIANS 4:6-9, 13 & 19)