August 7: Joy: My Secret Weapon

Theme: Finding Strength In Joy

Corry Chambers, 
Women’s Ministries Director, CIC

Scripture: “Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” – Nehemiah 8:10 (NIV)

Life as a woman can be a beautiful tapestry of responsibilities, relationships, and rhythms—but it can also be overwhelming. Whether you’re a mother nurturing young hearts, a professional juggling deadlines, a caregiver tending to loved ones, or a single woman facing life’s demands solo—some days feel like you’re barely keeping it all together.

In Nehemiah 8, the people of Israel had just heard the Word of God after years of exile. Convicted and overwhelmed by their failures, they wept. But Ezra and Nehemiah told them not to grieve. Why? Because God’s Word didn’t come to crush them—but to restore them. And with restoration comes joy.

It wasn’t their circumstances that changed in that moment—it was their focus. They looked beyond their brokenness and saw the faithfulness of a God who still loved them. That shift in perspective brought joy—and that joy became strength.

Joy isn’t naive or blind to hardship. It’s not the same as temporary happiness. Joy is a spiritual weapon—a gift from God that sustains us when we should be collapsing. It’s the inner confidence that God is still in control, still good, and still working all things together for our good.

As women, we often carry invisible burdens. But what if we began carrying joy instead? What if we fiercely protected our joy like a shield, not allowing circumstances to rob us of it? What if we chose to see joy as our secret weapon—not a luxury, but a necessity?

Reflection Questions:

1. What are some things currently trying to steal your joy?
2. How can you shift your focus from the problem to the promise of God’s faithfulness?
3. Can you recall a time when choosing joy gave you strength you didn’t know you had?

 Prayer:

Lord, thank You for reminding me that joy is not dependent on my situation, but on Your unchanging love. Help me to guard my joy and to walk in the strength it gives. When the days feel heavy, lift my spirit with Your promises. Let my life reflect the joy that comes from knowing You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Joy Challenge:

Today as I celebrate my birthday I will choose at least one joyful thing to do. 

Here are some suggestions for you as well. Sing your favorite worship song, dance around your kitchen, write a gratitude list, or take a peaceful walk. Whatever you do, let joy fill the space where worry once lived.

Amen.