The Joy of Jerusalem Was Heard
Also that day they offered great sacrifices, and rejoiced, for God had made them rejoice with great joy; the women and the children also rejoiced, so that the joy of Jerusalem was heard afar off.
The book of Nehemiah recounts the challenges facing Nehemiah and the Jews as they rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem. They faced many enemies from without and intrigue from within. But still they persevered and completed this major task.
At the dedication of the wall, the people were ready to praise God and celebrate this accomplishment. Nehemiah assigned two large choirs to give thanks from the top of the newly rebuilt walls.
Verse 42 adds that the singers “sang loudly” under the direction of Jezrahiah, and the result was a celebration that could be heard from afar. Examples like this show that God enjoys the praise and rejoicing of His people.
For more about Nehemiah, see our article about the book of Nehemiah. For more about our great Creator God, see the section “Who Is God?”
