the strength of joy

When Nehemiah and Ezra had just finished reading the law, the people of God wept because they were aware of the dysfunction and sin that had caused their ancestors so much trouble.  The Levites who were with them were careful to say "Do not grieve!  This day is holy to the Lord".  Indeed the awareness of sin is the first step to redemption.  It's a privilege that the Holy Spirit makes us aware of our sin, because we have a Savior!  At the end of their instruction the Levites declared over the people:  "​Do not grieve, because the joy of the LORD is your strength.” (Neh 8:9-10). Praise God!