Melt my 💕 Daily Dose -Nehemiah 8:10 — Feeling like you’ve messed up too much? There’s still a seat at the table...

Nehemiah 8:10 (NIV): 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.‘

📍The Israelites had just returned from exile (a long, painful time of being away). They were rebuilding their lives, city, and faith. They asembled on the first day of the seventh month (a Holy Day-special holiday for reflection, rest, and renewal., NOT the Sabbath day), and Ezra the Priest read the Book of the Law (aka God’s Word) to the people for the first time in forever.

When the people heard it, they wept and were overwhelmed with shame & guilt. Why? Because they realized how far they had drifted from God’s ways. But Nehemiah steps in and says:  'Stop weeping. This is actually a day to celebrate. Go eat good food, drink something sweet, share with others, and remember, the joy of the Lord is your strength.' (Nehemiah 8:10, my paraphrase)

You might feel unworthy sometimes, like you've messed up a whole lot, but God’s joy isn't based on your perfection.  It is  based on His love. When life feels heavy, joy in God is what holds you up. That’s your emotional support system.

Do not stay stuck in your shame. Let God’s joy be what holds you up.  Life gets heavy, but God’s joy gives us the strength to keep moving forward, even on rough days.

📍Breathing excercise: I recommend you try this before you pray.  Helps me to relax:  Repeat for 1–2 minutes, or longer if needed  

1. Sit or lie down comfortably
2. Inhale slowly (while inhaling in your heart say): 'Lord, I receive Your peace'
3. Exhale gently (while exhaling in your heart say): 'I release my heaviness'

📍Let’s Pray:  Dear God, when I am tired, please remind me that Your joy is my strength. Help me stop striving and start celebrating Your goodness. Let me be a light and share joy with others. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.

📍Faith based Activity: ‘From Guilt to Joy’

• What does “joy” look like for you right now, even in the middle of your mess?

• If God stood in front of you and said, “Enough, now celebrate,” how would you respond?

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