Joy is here!
Scripture
There will be joy and songs of thanksgiving, and I will multiply My people, not diminish them; I will honour them, not despise them.
Observation
This is a comforting scripture for anyone who is going through periods of hardships, tribulations and trials. It was reassurance that God Himself was giving His people when they were in bondage. Though their affliction was warranted by God due to the rebellion and disobedience of the people, He still gave them this scripture as a promise. What a good God we serve . This scripture speaks about joy and thanksgiving to come due to the manifest promises of God. Where there was sorrow , it will be replaced with joy.
When we take a look at thanksgiving on the other hand , it is a way of appreciation due to that which God has done. This scripture also lets us understand that the goodness of God comes with restoration and increase. It comes with His complete forgiveness as He remembers our transgressions no more .
Application
There’s a day set out for deliverance , restoration and increase in our lives . There’s a season where God wants to restore that which has been lost, it is not God’s will that one should perish (2 Peter 3:9) . For this reason, it’s important to always have a heart of expectation and to never give up. It’s important to write down promises you believe God is giving you. God Himself told Jeremiah to write down His words (Jeremiah 30:2). This allows for you to see the faithfulness of God and in the long run to also build trust in Him as your God. It’s important to recognise seasons (Ecclesiastes 3:1). It’s important to always remember and say to yourself “this too shall pass, there’s nothing new under the sun”(Ecclesiastes 1:9)
Yes sometimes we may go through difficult times due to our own disobedience and negligence but it’s important to hold on to the fact that God will never leave nor forsake you. God chastens those He loves (Hebrews 12:6) Once deliverance and restoration takes place it’s always important to show appreciation to God. To confess His goodness and to sing songs of praise to Him.
Prayer
Abba Father, thank You for Your word today. I repent of any form of disobedience and negligence. I ask that Your blood will wash and atone for my sins. I pray that You oh Lord will restore that which has been lost, may You replace any sorrow I have with joy and may You increase and honour me. In Jesus name I pray amen.