PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Nehemiah 11-12
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“The sound of rejoicing in Jerusalem could be heard far away. (Nehemiah 12:43)
Have you ever heard the “sound of rejoicing” like this?
When is the last time you experienced the sound of believers rejoicing?
Not just an amplified sound system, not just a large group singing.
I’m thinking of a truly joy-filled, full throttle praising?
When the joy in the Lord within cannot be contained.
True joy is not something that we can fake or make happen.
It is the result of the Spirit impressing God’s love and grace in my heart.
To have the “sound of rejoicing”, we need to experience joy within.
It won’t help to argue about worship styles, songs, instruments, etc.
Joy is the fruit of knowing God and Jesus within, and then any style will do.
Joyful worship comes from God and Jesus stirring in me.
How has the greatness or goodness of God caused my heart to move this week?
Is my heart stirring with gratitude, or my eyes with tears?
I sense the Lord asking me, ‘am I experiencing the joy of the Lord within?’
PRAYER
Lord, I’m not content with worship music, songs or instruments. Inflame such a joy within my heart that any music, song or instrument will do!
Fireworks! I think if they had them in Jerusalem they would have used them to celebrate the completion and dedication of the wall, people once more living in the city, and the proper restoration of the temple services – people were pleased at the service of the Levites and priests. This was a highpoint for Nehemiah, Ezra and Zerubbabel. Their mission has been completed – with the blessing of the emperor at the time. There was so much singing and rejoicing – people could hear it far away like fireworks! We too may rejoice in good – or come together to share love and outreach for our neighbours affected by tragedy – like in London. The outpouring of love is like fireworks too! Help us to rejoice and willingly share with others the love we have through Jesus! If we can’t rejoice or love – what will attract people to Jesus??
Coming together to sing and praise and offer thanksgiving to God in great numbers. This sound of praise was heard by many for the joy of the Lord God is their strength. The peoples served their God according to the commands. Praise and thanksgiving I too need to bring unto my King. May the peoples praise You also this day and see what the Lord God has done for we need to live each day with an attitude of gratitude with altitude. Praise Him always.
Praise Him, praise Him, all ye little children,
God is love, God is love;
Praise Him, praise Him, all ye little children,
God is love, God is love.
Love Him, love Him, all ye little children,
God is love, God is love;
Love Him, love Him, all ye little children,
God is love, God is love.
Thank Him, thank Him, all ye little children,
God is love, God is love;
Thank Him, thank Him, all ye little children,
God is love, God is love.