“So the two thanksgiving choirs stood in the house of God, likewise I and the half of the rulers with me.” Nehemiah 12:40
Nehemiah restored Jerusalem as a city holy to God by encouraging everyone to join the choir or the orchestra. He knew joyful worship would heal the afflicted. Israel had been dispersed, despised, distressed and depressed. Nehemiah's restoration work on the wall of Jerusalem had united them as a people blessed by God. But they had worked hard and were weak and weary.
They needed renewal. The Levites united to become two thanksgiving choirs who stood in the house of God. The all male celebration became larger and louder with contagious joy. Soon their wives and children joined in. The joy of Jerusalem was heard far away. Giving thanks to God through music renewed their strength.
DISCOVER THE HEALING POWER OF JOYFUL WORSHIP: Join a thanksgiving choir and sing with all your heart. Or form a band and make a joyful noise for the Lord.
PRAYER: Lord, I need renewal. I will not hide away in isolation, but help me to use my talents with others and give thanks in joyful worship. Thank you. Amen