Freely Speaking Audio Devotion

Welcome to Freely Speaking, an OHSOFREE devotional ministry where we share our hearts and trust God for transformation.

Today, Susan Hales shares her thoughts on how loving God with all your strength can fill you with joy.

Our scripture is found in Mark 12:30 NIV:

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.”

No one wants to hear the words “It’s cancer” once, let alone twice. I had so many questions for God. “Why me? Wasn’t having cancer one time enough?”

While at church, I heard the phrase "The joy of the Lord is my strength" in a song. I immediately wanted to know where I could find this verse and I found the scripture in the book of Nehemiah.

The Babylonians exiled Nehemiah after conquering Judah, but Nehemiah returned to Israel to rebuild Jerusalem's protective walls and gates. He and the other workers experienced discouragement, conflict, threats, and opposition.

Despite the problems, the repairs were completed in a record fifty-two days. Then, Nehemiah and Ezra led the people in a spiritual revival by celebrating the Feast of the Tabernacles and renewing their covenant with God.

“Nehemiah said, ‘Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength” Nehemiah 8:10 (NIV).

The people needed to do more than rebuild the walls. To experience the joy of the Lord, they had to rebuild their spiritual lives by obeying the Law and returning to worship the Lord.

Joy is fleeting when we rely on changing circumstances or people who ultimately may fail us. But the joy of the Lord is the only true joy that comes from loving the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength.

When we abide in Christ and are filled with the Holy Spirit, the joy of the Lord becomes our source of strength to sustain us, especially in times of suffering.

Are you facing circumstances that require the strength that comes from the Lord's joy? If so, let us know so we can pray with you.

Thank you for joining us today. If you would like to learn more about OhSoFree Ministries, please visit us at www.ohsofreeministries.com/