The Pulpit Commentary on Nehemiah 2:3

The Pulpit Commentary · Joseph S. Exell and contributors · Public domain

Sadness, when and how far justifiable.

"Why should not my countenance be sad?"

I. SADNESS IS OFTEN JUSTIFIABLE, OR EVEN COMMENDABLE.

1. Under great troubles. Stoicism is neither natural nor Christian. Troubles are meant to trouble us. If they do not, they afford no trial to faith and patience, and cannot effect their purpose for discipline and improvement.

2. Under the consciousness of sin. In view of its essential evil as committed against God, his rights, laws, and goodness; its injuriousness to ourselves and to others; its final consequences unless forgiven.

3. In sympathy with the troubles of others. Which makes them our own. Christian fellow, ship includes community of suffering. "If one member suffer, all the members suffer with it."

4. On account of the sins of others (Psalms 119:136, Psalms 119:158; Ezekiel 9:4; Philippians 3:18).

5. On account of the troubles of the Church. Nehemiah's sadness was honourable to him.

II. YET SADNESS SHOULD NOT BE INCONSOLABLE.

1. It need not. For a sure remedy is furnished in the truths and promises of the gospel, and the ever-available aid of the Holy Spirit.

2. It ought not. For faith and prayer, opening the heart to the Divine consolations, and securing the Divine aid, would turn sadness into peace, if not joy. Those cases are, however, to be excepted where melancholy springs from physical causes, and needs bodily rather than spiritual treatment.

III. SADNESS SHOULD NEVER BE PREDOMINANT IN THE CHRISTIAN. For his habitual sadness of spirit, countenance, or speech—

1. Dishonours God.

2. Robs himself. Counteracting the design of our religion, everywhere prominent in the New Testament. "That they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves." "In the world ye shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer." "The kingdom of God is … joy in the Holy Ghost." "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy," etc. "These things write we unto you, that your joy may be full."

3. Hinders Christian service. "The joy of the Lord is your strength."

4. Retards the progress of religion. Discouraging inquirer, and giving occasion to adversaries to speak ill of the religious life.

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