Sept. 21, 2017
Nehemiah 8
Jesus to us in these Scriptures:
Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of Me. (John 5:39)
I am the way, the truth, and the life. (John 14:6)
LET IT GLOW
We can learn a lot by listening, whether it is to others or to God's Word. Words reveal thoughts, feelings, and instructions. We need to listen twice as much as we talk. But do we? Did the Jews in this chapter? Read on to find out.
The scribe Ezra had been teaching the Law of God for 12 years in Jerusalem and Judah before the arrival of Nehemiah. Eventually, Ezra's teaching had made an impact on the Jews. Now that the walls around Jerusalem were rebuilt, the nation and the people needed rebuilding. This was achieved through:
- God's Word,
- a revived spirit,
- making a covenant of commitment,
- strengthening both Jerusalem and the people,
- and discipline. (The Preacher's Outline and Sermon Bible)
How many have a problem listening to a sermon for just 30 minutes?
Are we hungering for the Word of God?
LET IT GROW
What happened during that time?
- Ezra read from a high wooden pulpit (a tower), platform.
- On his right stood 6 assistants and on his left stood 7 assistants, named in verse 4.
- When Ezra opened the book, immediately the people stood up. They honored and respected God's Word in this manner. (There were no soft cushioned pews.)
- First, Ezra praised the LORD, the great God before teaching the Word.
- Next, the people responded by saying "Amen," while raising their hands, then bowing down and worshipped God with their faces on the ground.
Do we listen attentively to God's Word?
Do we ask, "How does this apply to my life?"
Are we asking the Holy Spirit to help us understand it?
LET IT GO
Listen attentively to God's Word.
Ask how it applies to me.
Don't hesitate to praise the Lord with "amen's" and raising of my hands.
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