Where Are You Looking?

O. T. #1069  "Where Are You Looking?"
Sept. 27, 2017
Nehemiah 9-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Where are we looking-at the circumstances that surround us, discouraging us? Or are we looking up, adoring and praising our God in stead of that? Can we look back in our past and thank God for His faithfulness? Are we in need of His grace and compassion? He is ready to give it. He never runs out of them. He is ready to provide and give us peace. Israel experience that and I need to.

We looked at the outline of how the Jews prayed and worshiped God in chapter 9.

Charles Swindoll, in his study guide, Hand Me Another Brick Timeless Lessons on Leadership, takes a closer look at the structure and purposes of this faith-inspiring prayer, considering each of its four dimensions:

1. Looking up in adoration and praise to God. (verses 5-6)

• They praised the name of God.
• They praised Him for is exalted position, set on high above the mountains.
• They comprehended the grandeur of His peerless sovereignty.
• They praised God for His matchless creation, which daily heralds His omnipotence, faithfulness, mercy, and  love.

The Scriptures give the many names of God, which reveals something different about His character.

In Genesis 22:14, He is called Jehovah-Jireh, which means The LORD will provide.
We read of God providing a ram to be  offered by Abraham in the place of Isaac, his son.
Can we be thankful for all He things God has provided for us?

In Judges 6:24, He is Jehovah-Shalom, which means The LORD is Peace.
Gideon was called by God to defeat the mighty army of the Midianites. He did it with only 300 men
God gave him peace and reassurance of victory.
Can we use some peace in our situation?

LET IT GROW

2. Looking back in reflection and thanksgiving. (verses 7-18)

• Israel's past is reviewed, documenting the hand of God in each event.
• God made promises to Abraham and was faithful to him.
• God delivered Israel from slavery in Egypt through signs and wonders.
• Laws were given through Moses, and God provided for His children as the wondered 40 years in the wilderness.

Israel a its ups and downs, went around in spiritual circles, forsaking God, repenting of their sins, and following Him.
In 9:31, we read Nevertheless, in Your great compassion You did not make an end of them or forsake them; for You are a gracious and compassionate God.

God would have been just and in the right to have wiped out Israel and started with another group of people as is own, but He didn't. He showed compassion and grace as He forgave them over and over again. Aren't we glad He does that for us?


LET IT GO

Jesus, You are all I need. Nothing is impossible with You.
Thank You for providing for me, all that I have and all that I need.
I need Your peace, grace, and compassion.