Joy can hold a tired soul

This line is quoted constantly on its own, and the setting it comes from is not a celebration. The people are weeping. They have just heard the Law read and explained, and they have understood it, and it has flattened them.
What they are told is not cheer up. They are told the day is holy, and then given something to do: eat, drink, and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready. The joy arrives with instructions, and the instructions point outward. Then comes the line - do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength - and notice whose joy it is. Not the strength of your joy. The strength of his.
Scripture links:
- Nehemiah 8:9-10 - "For all the people wept as they heard the words of the Law... 'Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready... And do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.'"
On a day when you have none of your own, the joy in question was never yours.