Taking Advantage

O. T. #1058  "Taking Advantage"
Sept. 11, 2017
Nehemiah 5-Part 2
Do unto others as you want them to do unto you.

LET IT GLOW

Do you remember in Sunday School when we were taught the Golden Rule? Treat others the way we want to be treated. Where has it gone? Is it still around? Few demonstrate it now. They take advantage of others in order to profit themselves, but Nehemiah didn't.

Nehemiah was very angry with the social injustice being done to his people. After consulting with himself, he called a public meeting with the wealthy noble men and officials, the ones doing it.
What did Nehemiah do about this?

• He pointed out their inconsistent, contradictory behavior. (v.7-8) They had been enslaved by the Persian Empire and now they were enslaving their Jewish brethren.
• They must show fear for God, having respect and worship for Him.
• Nehemiah challenged them the wealthy to be a witness for God. (v.9)
• He gave his personal testimony.

Do we take advantage of others when it is possible?

LET IT GROW

What had Nehemiah done?

• Nehemiah did not use his governor's expense account for his own personal use.
• He didn't collect taxes from the people. Obtaining wealth and property was not his purpose, but rebuilding the wall was.
• Nehemiah shared his wealth with others. He supported 150 officials and employees who served in is government, as well as many exiles who had returned there.
• He entertained visitors o official business.
• He did this he 12 years that he served as governor, never demanding provisions from the people. He felt the people had enough pressure on them in rebuilding their homes, city, and its walls.
• He bore the weight of excessive taxation demanded by the Persians.
• Nehemiah sought to please the LORD those 12 years.

[Resource:  The Preacher's Outlines  and Sermon Bible]

Can we say that Nehemiah served sacrificially the people as God had appointed him to do?
Do we see those around us that are suffering?
Will we help meet their needs wit love and compassion?

In the story of the Good Samaritan, we recognize compassion, sacrifice, and giving of himself in order to help another. Other passed the injured man without helping him, but this half-breed did not.
Ruth worked hard to provide for her mother in law, Naomi. so many examples in the Bible for us to follow.

LET IT GO

                                ... of selfishness.
                                ... and give to others.
                                ... treating others like I want to be treated.