There is strength in joy. The decision to be joyful injects life into life.
When you wake up in the morning, it is a sign that God has sent you a joy package.
“…Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.” Psalm 30:5, NLT
When you start your day with the words,
“Thank you, God, for another day. This is going to be a good day. I thankfully receive my package of joy and strength this morning.”
You are opening the door to receive that joy package and the strength it contains.
“This is the day the LORD has made;
We will rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24
After the Jewish people had returned from Babylonian captivity and rebuilt the wall of Jerusalem, they had a day of celebration. Then the priests read the law of God to them. When they realized how disobedient they had been, they started to weep. Then Nehemiah, the governor, told them;
“Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10
There is something about deliberately being joyful and deciding to be a blessing to someone else that produces strength for today.
Morning Prayer: Father, thank you for this new day. Thank you for the joy, peace, and strength you promise me in Jesus as I cast my cares on you and you walk with me through whatever comes.