Turning Struggles into Strengths: A Daily Meditation 

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In the book of Nehemiah, God fulfills His promise by bringing His people back from exile in Babylon to their homeland. The Israelites, heavy with grief, gather in Jerusalem to hear God’s Word. They’re looking for a way to turn their struggles into strengths.

“Nehemiah said, ‘Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.’”

Nehemiah 8:10,  English Standard Version

Despite facing hardships, God’s people always have His presence with them. Just as He remained with the Jews in Babylon, God promises to be with us in both challenging times and moments of celebration. By trusting in God, we can find peace and strength in His joy, allowing it to overflow into generosity toward others. 

Nehemiah’s call to celebrate initiates the Jewish Festival of Shelters or Booths (Sukkot), a time to commemorate God’s protection during the Israelites’ desert wanderings. This festival serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness amidst adversity and the importance of gratitude for His blessings. 

Think about times when you’ve felt lost and then found again, like the Israelites returning home. Just as God rescued them from exile, He brings us from death to life within His kingdom. In times of darkness or confusion, God’s Word acts as a beacon of hope, guiding us toward joy and strength in His presence. 

Imagine walking in your neighborhood and hearing joyous music and laughter coming from one of the houses. Stumbling upon this lively party represents discovering God’s abundant blessings and His invitation to join in. Embrace the blessings given to you and find strength in the joy that comes from the Lord. This joy can dispel sadness and empower you to face life’s challenges with faith and gratitude. 

Lord God, your joy is my strength and my stronghold. You protect me and You keep Your promises to me. I know that I am safe and I will never be alone, because You are with me. I surrender control of my circumstances to You. Help me to find joy and peace in Your presence, instead of harboring worry and shame. Open my eyes to see You working in my life. In Jesus precious name, amen. 

Listen now to this Abide meditation, “Turning Struggles into Strengths,” based on Nehemiah 8:10. Let God speak to your heart about letting His joy be your strength at all times.

Let Abide be your daily companion as you seek to turn your struggles into strengths as you experience the joy of the Lord. Our more than 1500 biblical meditations all exist to help you experience the joy of the Lord. Use this link for 25% off.