Repent, Restore, Repay

O T. #1059  "Repent, Restore, Repay"
September 12, 2017
Nehemiah 5-Part 3
Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; That they do good, that  they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate (give, show benevolence): Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.   1 Timothy 6:17-19

LET IT GLOW


Folks, are we highminded, arrogant, because we have a big savings account? Are we neglecting those in need? Are we taking advantage of those in need? Some of the Jews were.

Repent, restore, repay. That was quite a talking to Nehemiah gave the wealthy nobles and officials in Jerusalem. He told them what they were doing was wrong. Because of the high interest charged on loans (for food), the poorer workers on the wall were mortgaging off their land and  children into slavery. Oppression
Nehemiah told those guys to:

• walk in the fear God, be a witness of His, in other words, repent; 
• restore the fields, vineyards, olive groves, and homes;
• repay the interest charged when they lent money, grain, new wine, and olive oil.

He laid it on the line, didn't he? Sometimes we just need to hear the plain truth, and not beat around the bush. However, reality can be hard. How do we react when confronted with it?

LET IT GROW

So what happened in Jerusalem? Those scoundrels said they would give back everything and demand nothing more from the people-restitution. They agreed to do as Nehemiah said. They faced the wrong head-on.
Nehemiah called the priests and made the nobles and officials swear to do what they had promised n an oath. As an illustration, he shook the folds of his robe, asking God to shake out the possessions and house of any who failed to keep their promise. Can you hear the amens?

Today, will we do what is the right thing to do as a Christian? When we don't, will we repent, restore, and repay any wrong?

LET IT GO

Be not highminded (arrogant).
Trust in the Living God.
Do good.
Be rich in good works.
Be ready to distribute when the opportunity comes.