Nehemiah 8

In this next step of the restoration process, Ezra the scribe and priest is called upon to READ GOD's WORD in a public assembly where the "men and women and all who were able to understand" gathered "together as one".  The people stood up, "listened attentively" from daybreak till noon, and praised and worshipped the LORD.  Then when they "understood what was being read", with the help of the Levites, they mourned and wept, most likely due to recognition of their sinfulness contrasted with the holiness of God.   But, they were encouraged to celebrate and rejoice instead, "for the joy of the Lord is [their] strength".  The next day, they came back for more from God's Word.  When they recognized that they had not fully been observing the Feast of Tabernacles, since the days of Joshua, the way that God had instructed; they celebrated the Feast and were filled with joy.  And they continued READING God's Word throughout the festival.

In this passage, I see that when we are ready to listen (e.g. unified, respectful, attentive), reading God's Word will help lead us to praise, worship, repentance, joy, and obedience.    And it can whet our appetites for more of God's Word.

The phrase "The Joy of the Lord is Our Strength" is used often, and I've even sung it in lyrics of songs; but, what does it really mean?   In the context of the passage, it is basically saying that in the JOY that comes from God, we can find strength in the midst of troubles and mourning.   In other words, that JOY fortifies us.  I also see it being related to how God can turn our mourning into joy; in that He heals us not only physically but also spiritually.    When we mourn for our sins in repentance, we can rejoice that He is at work and that He forgives.  But, also, when we rejoice in HIM, we have strength to endure and continue.