Nehemiah 8:12 And all the people went their way to eat, and to drink, and to send portions, and to make great mirth, because they had understood the words that were declared unto them.
When the people heard the Scriptures read they were sad at first. They didn’t understand that God had given them the victory. They were delivered from their sin and their past. They were experiencing a new life. They were out of the captivity, the Babylonian bondage. They were enjoying the freedom that God gave them. They were living the dream of God’s people. They were back in their city. They were seeing God do great things.
Once they understood the words, they got happy. They were told to get happy. They were told to stop crying and being sad. They were commanded to be happy and rejoice. They were told to have a party.
They made great mirth. That is an old word that means to have a party. It means to get excited, have a good time with friends. It implies noise, a celebration. It warmed the soul. They had a feast. They were singing and shouting about how good God had been to them.
We were sinners. We were under the judgment of God. Now we have been washed, cleansed, justified, sanctified, given new life. It is time to enjoy who you are. It is time to get excited about your good God and His salvation.
Are you worshipping God? Are you enjoying what He has done for you? Are you living in the prison of your past or enjoying the privileges of your salvation?