Nehemiah 8:10 AMP
Then Ezra said to them, “Go [your way], eat the rich festival food, drink the sweet drink, and send portions to him for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be worried, for the joy of the Lord is your strength and your stronghold.”
I was having a discussion with a friend about how much we have become accustomed to misery and sorrow, so much so that we sometimes feel guilty for being happy or laugh even for a moment. Even friends or acquaintances who might know some information about your personal challenges get caught up in this as well – they will murmur in their hearts, “why is she happy with all her problems?” Satan has literally created a stronghold in our minds that until everything in your life is perfect, you shouldn’t experience joy or happiness.
I take down that stronghold and take captive every such thought to conform to the mind of Christ. I’d like to remind you that the Joy of the Lord is your strength and fortress. You don’t need a perfect life to be happy. God does mighty things even in your imperfections. The things you can control in life by all means do but if you have trusted God with your life, your challenges and desires, then allow the Holy Spirit to pour out His peace and joy into your life. The same peace that caused Jesus to sleep soundly when the storm was raging the boat. Receive that peace in any and every situation in your life. I decree it is so and so it is in Jesus’ name. AMEN!
XOXO,
Lady Abena.