Nehemiah 12:43 Also that day they offered sacrifices, and rejoiced: for God had made them rejoice with great joy: the wives also and the children rejoiced; so that joy of Jerusalem was heard even afar off.
On the day of dedication of the wall, the people gathered together for a celebration of thanksgiving and great joy. It was God who made them rejoice with great joy. God is the source of joy, and we respond with great joy in our worship life of praise and thanksgiving when we hear and see what great things He has done for us. He has freely given forgiveness, life, and salvation, and that Gospel Word brings His Joy to our hearts, and lips, and actions.
His joy with which He graces us is deep and abiding, and cannot be easily taken away, no matter how hard the devil tries. His internal and eternal joy is stronger than the temporary troubles and sorrows we suffer in this world. By faith we rejoice in the Lord always. Whether we always feel it or not, the joy is always there.
Such joy causes us to offer sacrifices in joyful response. We are so joyful in the love of God that we are willing to offer up what is even most precious to us, our possessions and even ourselves for the good of others. Sacrificing ourselves, which is painful, becomes a great joy and privilege.