Strong Tower
A daily scripture exposition.
Thursday, January 9, 2025
Leviticus 23:40-41 NLT
“On the first day gather branches from magnificent trees—palm fronds, boughs from leafy trees, and willows that grow by the streams. Then celebrate with joy before the Lord your God for seven days. You must observe this festival to the Lord for seven days every year. This is a permanent law for you, and it must be observed in the appointed month from generation to generation.”
Celebrate before the Lord
How do you celebrate before the Lord? Do you follow His instructions, or do you choose your own way? In the referenced scripture, the Lord requires everyone participating in the festival to gather branches from magnificent trees. He indicates what items are acceptable, making it the responsibility of the gatherer to present the finest offerings for God’s glory, even when it requires effort. Are you intentional about what you present to celebrate the goodness of the Lord? Gathering palm fronds indeed comes with a cost. One must be cautious of the spikes and thorns that can hurt one’s hands or pierce one’s feet or body. However, these challenges should not deter us from appreciating God’s glory.
The palm fronds mentioned remind us of Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. They suggest that the people of Israel, even during His earthly ministry, held onto these instructions despite not being the original recipients. This commitment happened because the custodians of these instructions were selfless and took care to ensure that the message was passed down through generations. Friends, whether future generations will serve the Lord and adhere to His instructions depends on you. Are you upholding the integrity of divine teachings?
Finally, it’s essential to reflect on the significance of joy in our worship. We are encouraged to enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise, for God delights in our joy and is pleased by the sweet aroma of our heartfelt celebrations. Despite the challenges or lies the enemy may try to implant in our minds, God desires us to hold onto joy. Embracing joy is a testament to our unwavering trust in Him. Celebrating in His presence is something we must do intentionally, leaving our fears and worries behind at the door.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am immensely grateful for the victory You have granted me through Your Son, Jesus Christ. I humbly ask for the guidance of the Holy Spirit so that I may continually celebrate with joy before You in every circumstance. Help me focus more on Your presence and less on my troubles, lifting my heart in praise and thanksgiving for all You have done. In Jesus’s name, Amen.
©️2025 The Chapel of Glory Ministries