How do we know that the joy of the Lord gives us strength?

We understand that the joy of the Lord strengthens us when we see it as deeply connected to our relationship with Jesus Christ. When the people in Nehemiah's time heard the Law, their initial reaction was sorrow due to their failure to keep it. However, this sorrow led them to realize God's provision for their redemption. The joy that comes from knowing that Christ has fulfilled the Law and taken our sins upon Himself provides believers with strength. This joy is empowering, enabling us to serve God and reflect His glory. Thus, the joy of the Lord is more than an emotional state; it is a spiritual source of strength rooted in the Gospel and our identity in Christ.