In Nehemiah, chapter eight, verse nine, the people heard and understood the Word of God and felt a deep conviction of sin and guilt. The passages of the Law that brought a clear revelation of their spiritual condition may have been Leviticus twenty-six and Deuteronomy twenty-eight. These scriptures speak of God’s blessing or judgment, depending on the people’s obedience or disobedience to His Word. In revivals, weeping, when accompanied by profound repentance, as in chapter nine, is a sign of the work of the Holy Spirit. Turning from sin to sorrow brings the forgiveness of God and the joy of salvation.
It was a good sign that their hearts were tender when they heard the words of the Law. The people were to send portions to those for whom nothing was in preparation. A religious feast must draw out the soul of those who desire the word. God’s bounty should make us bountiful. We must not only give to those who offer themselves but send to those out of sight. Their strength consisted of joy in the Lord. The better we understand God’s word, the more comfort we find in it. The darkness of trouble arises from the darkness of ignorance.
The high festival is the days were unsuitable for the public and, as it were, objective sorrow. The Day of Atonement was coming for that, as well as the special day of fasting and covenant, which was already in the plan of Nehemiah and Ezra. Namely, as a day of feasting and thanksgiving to God and rejoicing in his mercies, for otherwise even days of fasting were holy to God in general. Everything is beautiful in its season. We must not be merry when God calls to mourning. So we must not afflict ourselves and be swallowed up in sorrow when God gives us occasion to rejoice. Even sorrow for sin must not grow so excessive as to hinder our joy in God and cheerfulness in his service.