The Strength to Repent: February 15, 2026

Finding Strength in the Joy of the Lord

In today's service, Pastor Michael shared a powerful message from the book of Nehemiah, specifically chapters 8 and 9. After the walls of Jerusalem were finally built, the people didn't just celebrate their physical safety—they turned their hearts back to the Word of God.

Here are three key takeaways from the sermon:

• Everything Starts with Paying Attention: The Israelites gathered by the thousands to listen to the Word of God from daybreak until noon. Pastor Michael reminded us that real change—reformation—only happens when we stop just "taking in information" and start listening with an intent to obey.

• The Purpose of Conviction: As the people heard the Law, they began to weep because they realized how far they had fallen short. While the Law can feel heavy and breaking, Pastor Michael pointed out that this grief is meant to lead us to restoration, not to crush us.

• Joy is Our Fuel for Change: We often hear the phrase, "The joy of the Lord is your strength". In this context, it means that remembering God’s history of deliverance and his grace (especially through Jesus) gives us the actual power we need to repent. We don't change by "trying harder," but by remembering God's goodness more.

A Call to Lead

The sermon concluded with a challenge for the "heads of the family" to lead the way in confession and worship. When we are honest about our struggles and focused on God’s goodness in our own homes, that revival naturally spreads into our streets and our community.