How can we encourage others to experience God's joy as in Ezra 6:22? Revisiting the Moment in Ezra 6:22 “They kept the Feast of Unleavened Bread seven days with great joy, for the LORD had given them joy and had turned the heart of the king of Assyria toward them, so that he strengthened their hands in the work on the house of God, the God of Israel.” (Ezra 6:22) Unpacking the Joy • The people’s celebration flowed out of obedient worship. • God Himself “had given them joy.” Joy is His gift, not human manufacture. • External opposition was reversed—God “turned the heart of the king”—so the people could rejoice without hindrance. • Their hands were “strengthened” for further service; joy fueled faithful work. Encouraging Others to Taste the Same Joy 1. Celebrate obedience, not merely results • Highlight steps of faith people are taking, however small. • Remind them: “In keeping them is great reward.” (Psalm 19:11) 2. Spotlight God as the giver of joy • Share verses like John 15:11—“that My joy may be in you.” • Emphasize communion with Christ over circumstances. 3. Share concrete testimonies of divine turnaround • Ezra’s generation saw a pagan king’s heart changed. • Recount present-day stories where God opened doors, reinforcing Psalm 126:2—“Our mouths were filled with laughter.” 4. Foster gatherings that honor God’s faithfulness • Regular meals, worship nights, Scripture readings echo the seven-day feast rhythm. • Encourage singing truth together (Ephesians 5:19). 5. Strengthen hands for continued service • Pair words of affirmation with practical help—resources, skills, time. • Follow the pattern of Hebrews 10:24—“spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” 6. Replace anxiety with grateful rejoicing • Model Philippians 4:4–6—rejoice, pray, thank, experience peace. • Guide others to list answered prayers; thanksgiving ignites joy. 7. Keep Christ’s finished work central • The rebuilt temple foreshadowed Jesus; today, remind believers that in Him “we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” (Colossians 1:14) • Joy deepens when people see they are securely loved and eternally forgiven. Key Takeaways to Pass Along • Joy is God-given and tied to obedience, worship, and remembering His interventions. • Celebrations that rehearse God’s acts inspire fresh courage. • Practical support and Scripture-based encouragement strengthen others to keep building God’s house—now expressed in the Body of Christ. As we practice these patterns, we become living invitations for others to experience the same “great joy” God poured out in Ezra’s day. |
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