Remain Faithful

O. T. #1079  "Remain Faithful"
Oct.12, 2017
Summary of Nehemiah

LET IT GLOW

In review of the history of the Jews up to this point in time, they had been taken in captivity for 70 years in Babylon/Persia. Zerubbabel was allowed to take the first group, being 46,697 Jews, to Jerusalem to resettle and rebuild the Temple in 515 B.C. The journey took 4 months to travel 900 miles. King Cyrus gave them the captured Temple vessels, including those made of  silver and gold to be returned to their right place. Zerubbabel was appointed the first governor and Jeshua the first priest in the new community. Adversaries had cause the reconstruction of the Temple to stop for 14 years, but it was eventually completed.

During the next 57 years, the Jews slipped away from the Lord. Then Ezra took the second group of 1,754 Jews to Jerusalem. His mission was to teach God's Law, stir revival and reformation, and renew Temple worship, which was accomplished. King Darius supported this effort.

There was a gap of 12 before Nehemiah led the third group of Jews back to Jerusalem. King Artaxerxes supported them, making Nehemiah governor. His purpose was to rebuild the wall around Jerusalem, which only took 52 days. Nehemiah remained there for 12 years before returning to Persia.

When Nehemiah heard about the terrible oppression and defeated spirits of the Jews, he was deeply grieved and spent days in prayer. Being a cupbearer to the king, Nehemiah was allowed to go on the journey. (An unknown number of Jews accompanied him.) His constant and wholehearted devotion to God is seen throughout this book. Also seen is God's faithfulness to His children as He guided, protected, and provided whatever was needed in each circumstance.

Have we experienced this same God working in our life?
Great is Thy faithfulness Lord unto me.


LET IT GROW

As Nehemiah encouraged the Jews in their repairing and rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem, he faced external opposition. Enemy leaders of surrounding lands were afraid the Jews would conquer them. They used ridicule, insults, mockery, conspiracy, and lies in the effort to discourage the builders.

Internal struggles came as the poor Jews did not have enough food for families while building, so they mortgaged fields and homes to buy food, and borrowed money to pay Persian taxes. Nehemiah led the Jews to restore their love for their neighbor families.

Through it all, the wall was completed. Jerusalem was safe from their enemies. Revival came to the people and the nation of Israel. Fear, discouragement, and selfishness were overcome. Guards were placed on the wall at the gates. The wall was dedicated. sons were sung. The Word was read. People prayed, recommitted to serving God, gave tithes, loved their neighbor. Yep, I'd call it a revival.

Then it happened, gradually, while Nehemiah returned to Persia to give his report to the king, for about 3 years. Jerusalem became a mess spiritually. When he returned, Nehemiah found the Jews were violating God's Laws. They intermarried with unbelievers, desecrated the Temple, ignore the tithe and Sabbath. We read this week of Nehemiah's strong arm of discipline and the reform of Jerusalem.

But this book ends on a good note, not like the sour beginning. Nehemiah held a purification service for the priests, reestablished the offerings, and prayed for God to remember and favor him. Here his last words recorded, found in Nehemiah 13:31b are Remember me, O my God, for good.

The purpose God had for Nehemiah's life was accomplished. This man of prayer was also a man of action, responsibility, vision, and compassion. Through it all he remained faithful to God and God remained faith to him.

LET IT GO

Remain faithful to God.
Serve Him with my life.

Guard the Gates

O. T. #1078  "Guard the Gates"
Oct. 11, 2017
Nehemiah 13-Part 2
Have compassion on me according to your great and unfailing love. Nehemiah 13:22 NLT
Spare me according to the greatness of thy mercy. KJV

LET IT GLOW

If our gates here on the farm are not inspected every so often, they might allow the cattle to wander out of the pastures, even onto the road. Sometimes they don't get closed as we leave the field. Sometimes the cows push on them. We need to guard them.
Similarly, are we guarding the gates of our homes and churches from the evil trying to get inside and corrupt our lives? Trying to cause us to stray from God's Word?

Jerusalem's gates were down when Nehemiah came back to Jerusalem from his return to Persia. He found the Jews were violating the Mosaic Laws. They were associating with unbelievers, desecrating God's house, and neglecting to tithe. There were two other ways in which they violated the Law:

4. Working on the Sabbath-not honoring it and keeping it holy. (Exodus 20:8-11)

• Not only were the Jews working on the Sabbath, but they allowed foreigners to conduct business in Jerusalem on the Sabbath.

The correction:

• Nehemiah rebuked the nobles, charging them with perverting the Sabbath and warning them this sin brought on their previous captivity.
• He ordered the gates of city closed on the Sabbath, stationing his guards there so no merchandise could enter.
• As the merchants camped outside the gates on the Sabbath, the governor warned them they would be arrested if continued.
• He ordered the Levites to purify themselves ceremonially and guard the gates. Nehemiah prayed for God's help and mercy in this matter.

Keeping the Sabbath is one of the Ten Commandments. God knows that people need worship and rest. Working continuously causes the body to tear down. Our empty souls need refilled with God. He energizes and refreshes us.
As the gates closed, it stopped products from being transported in and out of Jerusalem. This cost the merchants living in Jerusalem, as well. They had to give up one day of income out of seven days.

Do we need to make a change in our life?

LET IT GROW

5. Marrying unbelievers-not building a godly family.

• Mixed marriages resulted in the children not being able to speak the Hebrew language, in which God's Word was written.

The correction: Nehemiah rebuked the Israelites by

• confronting those guilty, calling down curses on them;
• beating some of them and pulling their hair out (a sign of disgrace);
• causing them to renew their oath;
• reminded them of Solomon's marrying foreign wives led him into sin;
• exiled High Priest Eliashib for marrying Sanballat's daughter;
• prayed God would judge the grandson and Sanballat, having defiled the priesthood.

Was that was quiet drastic? Think about it-Nehemiah and Ezra worked so hard teaching and guiding the Jews in God's Laws for their life, that it must have disappointed them for the failings and sins of their people. They knew all of this could lead them down a path of captivity again.

How did it end up? Nehemiah held a purification service, reassigning the priests, reestablishing the offerings, and prayed for God's favor. What a leader. How seriously he took God's Word. He ought to please and obey God first.

LET IT GO

Repent.
Change my ways.
Honor the Lord's Day as a day of worship and rest.
Ask daily for God's love, mercy, and compassion.

Violation

O. T. #1077  "Violation"
Oct. 10, 2017
Nehemiah 13
Remember me, O my God, ...  Nehemiah 13:16a

LET IT GLOW

Nehemiah was governor in Jerusalem for 12 years, then he returned to Persia. He stayed around 3 years. When he secured permission to return to Jerusalem, Nehemiah discovered the people were violating God's Law in 5 ways:

1. Through evil associations-no foreigner (unbeliever) was allowed in their worship, according to
     Deuteronomy 23:3-6.

• Ammonite and Moabite had opposed Israel's march to the Promised Land. (Numbers 22:1-25:18) They were descendants of Lot and his 2 daughters.
• The 2 nations had hired Balaam to curse God's people.

The correction: Israel separated from all the mixed multitude. (verse 3)

Are we spiritually separated from the wicked of this world?
Have we separated our self from those leading a wicked life?
Are we allowing the sinful behavior of others to influence us?

2. Desecrating the house of God-a need to purify, cleanse the church.

• The High Priest Eliashib converted a large storage room in the Temple, making it available for Tobiah to use.
• The 2 men were desecrating, defiling the Temple.

The correction: Nehemiah threw out all of Tobiah's belongings he ordered the rooms cleansed, purified; all the Temple items were replaced.

Is our church building set apart for praising and worshiping God and studying His Word?
Is business conducted there? Are drugs, alcohol, smoking, or dancing allowed there?
Is gossip, rumors, bitterness, or cursing allowed?
Does immodest, suggestive dress and behavior exist there?


LET IT GROW

3. Neglecting to tithe-a need to support God's House.

• The people had stopped tithing.
• The Levites had to return to secular work.

The correction: Nehemiah rebuked the officials; restored the Levites to their duties; challenged the people to renew tithing and offerings; replaced the custodians of the storeroom and appointed trustworthy men; prayed for God's help.

Are we providing for the needs of  others?
Are we giving to the mission work of our church?
Are we a faithful tither?

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


LET IT GO

Be faithful in tithing to my church and the Lord Jesus.
Support the right activities of the church.

Walking on the Wall

O. T. #1076  "Walking on the Wall"
Oct. 9, 2017
Nehemiah 12-Part 2
God is the strength of my heart. My portion forever.  Psalm 73:26b

LET IT GLOW

We read today about the Jews walking on the wall they rebuilt around Jerusalem as part of its dedication. Are we walking on the wall, spiritually speaking? On one side is the world pulling us down and on the other side is our faith, holding us up. Which way will we lean? Will our wall of faith remain strong until the end?

Jerusalem was  growing city with new people, commerce, homes sprouting everywhere within its walls. After the population and housing crisis was resolved, the dedication of the wall around Jerusalem took place. The Jews survived the setbacks, criticisms, and challenges they faced during the reconstruction of the wall. What a change for them. The Jews responded with joy.

What took place at the dedication?

• Nehemiah sent out a special invitation to the religious leaders from the surrounding villages, the Levites, to come to Jerusalem for the preparation of the dedication celebration. They gathered and prepared. (verse 27) There would have been 284 men contacted, not by texting or phone. These men were descendants of Levi and specialists in Temple and Tabernacle activities.
• The Levite singers were to keep the dedication with gladness, with thanksgiving, with singing, and musical instruments. (verse 27)
• The priests and Levites purified themselves, the people, and he gates and the wall. (verse 30) Probably sin offerings were made.

As a worshiper and servant of Jesus Christ, do we make sacrifices?
Paul tells us in Romans 12:1-2 to present our bodies as a living sacrifice and our minds for renewal and transformation so we can prove what is good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Paul tells us in Hebrews 13:15 to offer Him the sacrifice of praise to God continually with thanksgiving; to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

LET IT GROW

What happened next?

• The leaders and musicians were divided into two processional groups walking on top of the wall.
• One group was led by Ezra, who walked in one direction, with music played and singing. Ty saw the results of their hard labor, the gates and the steps leading up to the city.
• The second group, led by Nehemiah, walked in the opposite direction, seeing the towers and gates built.
• The two groups met at the Temple to worship.

Walking on the top of the wall caused them to realize what a massive accomplishment they made in just 52 days. In addition, their enemy nations would have sent spies to observe the occasion. They might have thought twice before attacking as they observed the strength of the wall around Jerusalem.

Verse 40 says, So stood the two companies of them that gave thanks in the house of God, and I, and the half of the rulers with me.

Do we give thanks to God in the House of God? How is our attitude? Is it joyful?

LET IT GO

Give thanks unto the Lord for He is good. His mercy endures forever.
Offer my sacrifice of praise unto the Lord Jesus.

Loaded with Benefits

O. T. #1075  "Loaded with Benefits"
Oct. 6, 2017
Nehemiah 12
Bless be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Psalm 68:19

LET IT GLOW

Anyone have something to rejoice about that they want to share? Has God loaded you with benefits?Feel free to share your load here with us.
We have been loaded with benefits from God.
God has brought us through a rough 12 days with my husband's knee replacement. He had sleepless nights with pain. There were days of his not being able to walk far, even with a walker. I fixed him meals and brought them to him in his chair. Not to mention the trips and hours I spent going to and from the hospital. I am thankful for the church ladies who brought us meals. I didn't realize how exhausted I was. Thank God he is getting better. The doctor said his bones were grinding down as he walked before the replacement. It was necessary.
The Israelites were loaded with benefits. That is why they could rejoice.

The first 26 verses list 6 generations of high priests in Jerusalem, from Jeshua to Jonathan. Originally, there were 24 courses of priests, with each course serving in the Temple 2 weeks per year or 1 month biannually. (MacArthur) Those were returnees with  Zerubbabel.
Also, the Levite family leaders listed here were recorded during the reign of the Persian king, Darius. Musicians were organized as prescribed by David. Verse 24 says they praised and gave thanks (to God).
Can we praise and give thanks outside the church walls?


LET IT GROW

Skip down to verse 43 and we read that on the day of the wall dedication, the worshippers offered great sacrifices and rejoiced. What else does I say?

• God had made them rejoice with great joy. (Many of those people had known slavery, or at least heard about it, in Babylon. They rebuilt the Temple, the  city of David, and their homes.)
• Women and children rejoiced, also.
• The joy of Jerusalem was heard even afar off.

Does God amaze us with His mighty works? How merciful He is to us! He alone is worthy of our Praises!



LET IT GO

Trust in Jesus, my strong Deliverer.
Sing His praises.
Give thanks for all He has done.
Share my load of benefits.

Who Are You?

O. T. #1074  "Who Are You?"
Oct. 5, 2017
Nehemiah 11-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Willing unknowns, behind-the-scenes servants, low-profile people, unsung heroes, a bunch of people nobody ever heard of, these are phrases Swindoll used to describe the folks in chapter 11. Why study them, since we won't remember their names? Did they make a difference at all? Did they doubt their self-worth? Did they question the value of their gifts and talents? Can we relate?

Swindoll gives us 3 helpful principles hat can encourage us during these times of self-doubt:

1. Your gift makes you valuable, if not necessarily popular. Being a leader can be a lonely, often thankless job. sometimes there is little room for failure or mistakes. and others may not notice or understand the extra time and energy you devote to your role. but God sees, and He knows your heart. The same is true of those who are gifted in an area that never reaches the spotlight.
2. Every labor done in love is remembered by God, never forgotten. Even if your public duties and private actions nobody notices, God does, so be faithful.
3. Our final reward in heaven will be determined on the basis of personal faithfulness, not public applause. God will reward you in heaven based on the pure-hearted service of your of your life, rather than according to the number of plaques, trophies, or thank-you notes you've received.

Hebrews 6:10 says, For God is not unjust so as to forget your work and love which you have shown toward His name, in having ministered and in still ministering to the saints.

I don't know about you, but I needed that. Let us keep serving and loving in Jesus' name.


LET IT GROW

What if we offer our small gifts to be used by the Lord Jesus? What if we looked around our world and saw unknowns faithfully working hard, day after day. Can we encourage them with our gratitude? Appreciate them with thank-you notes, an email or text message.

But whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be chiefest, shall be servant of all. For even the Son of man came not be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give His life a ransom for many. Mark 10:43b-44.

Are we giving our life serving others?

LET IT GO
                          ...and let God.

Unnumbered, Unnamed, and Unknowns

O. T. #1073  "Unnumbered, Unnamed, and Unknown"
Oct. 4, 2017
Nehemiah 11-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Can we be counted as the unnumbered, unnamed, and unknowns with our life? Are we behind the scenes going good? Are we prayer warriors and singers that serve Jesus as the Jews did?

This chapter is filled with five groups of "willing unknowns," as Swindoll calls them in his study guide, Hand Me Another Brick, Timeless Lessons on Leadership:

1. The people who volunteered to move.
2. The people who worked within the Temple. (verses 10-12) The ministry staff was 822 in number, and unnamed. They served anonymous so God's people would be blessed as they came to worship. 
3. Those who worked outside the place of worship. (verses 15-16) This type of work involved the task of maintaining the exterior of the Temple and its grounds, as well as serving people in areas as judges and counselors
4. Those who supported the ministry through prayer. (verse 17) Unnoticed by men, but on their knees and noticed by God, their prayers kept the Temple ministry alive.
5. Those who supported the Lord with singing. (verses 22-23) They developed their gifts on the behalf of the people and praise of God. It was an unnumbered and unnamed choir.

The Jews had no song during their years of exile, but now they had the joy of the Lord as their strength.
We see God's grace and favor upon His children as they accepted the difficult challenge of moving within the city walls. This milestone unfolded the fulfillment of God's promised blessings.

LET IT GROW

Many may not have wanted to live within Jerusalem for various reasons:

• Non-Jews attached a sigma to Jerusalem residents, often excluding them from trade due to religious beliefs.
• Moving into the city meant rebuilding their homes and business, which involved time and money.
• Living in Jerusalem meant living by stricter obedience to God's Word since the Temple vicinity and social pressure.

That makes it easier to understand why only one tenth of the people moved into Jerusalem, by the casting of lots.
Are we willing to serve God outside the walls of the church? In our jobs and community we can find opportunities to share the love of Jesus. So many are hurting, brokenhearted, and abused.
Will we be the light that shines for God?

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.  (Matthew 5:16)

LET IT GO

                                 ... and let the joy of the Lord Jesus be my strength.
                                  ... and let His light shine through me.

Settling In

O. T. #1072  "Settling In"
Oct. 3, 2017
Nehemiah 11


LET IT GLOW

Sometimes we get settled in  a house, community, church, way of life and do not want to move when the Lord directs us to move. I have even cried when the ministry resulted in us leaving those we learned to love as family. However, as we got settled into  new place, we formed those strong relationships there, also. Evidently, the Jews did not have any problem in settling in another place, Jerusalem.

Jerusalem had a Temple for worship and a wall around the city. What was it lacking? It needed more settlers, increasing in population and housing. For 140 years this city had lain in utter ruin after the Babylonians destruction. Most of the returnees had settled outside of Jerusalem, on their family owned land. The leaders already lived in the holy city.

What was Nehemiah's solution?

• They cast lots, noting 1 out of 10 citizens would choose to live in Jerusalem, while the rest remained in the villages and other cities. (verse 1) Lots were stones marked, so the outcome would be considered the will of God.
• Volunteers to move to Jerusalem were sought. They willingly offered themselves in verse 2.

(This meant that 90% of the people lived outside of Jerusalem.) So the descendants of various family leaders who settled in Jerusalem are recorded in verses 3-9. The names of the family leaders of Judah are listed in verses 3-6. Their descendants totaled 468. It was a great sacrifice for them to move to Jerusalem. Also, their new life involved a massive cleanup project and rebuilding the city. This included rebuilding from the ground up, homes, shops, civic buildings, and other structures.
Within the list are the sons of Perez. That name rang a bell, so I looked at Matthew 1, where the descendants of David and Jesus are listed. Sure enough, Perez was one of them listed there. Don't you love it when God's plan comes together? How important was this family of Judah, that God kept them together.

All of this clean up and redoing in Jerusalem reminds me of  the many cities effected by hurricanes, floods, and fires in our own country down through the years. Our  people banded together and did what they had to do to rebuild. Love and support has been seen  and sent to those in need. Christians rise up to the needs of their brethren. Lives are changed.  Are we a part of this?


LET IT GROW

The tribe of Benjamin family leaders are listed in verse 7-9. These descendants totaled 928 men who were led by a chief officer named Joel and his assistant Judah.
Then we read of the priestly families who settled in Jerusalem (verses 10-14). Evidently, the priests were divided into 3 groups with various tasks in the Temple. The total number was 1,192. Priestly families were committed as the priest  was devoted to the Lord and His house. The family of pastors serving in each of our communities are need of prayer and encouragement. Are we praying for them daily? They meet the same challenges of life as others do.

Did you gather that the Jews were willing and determined to serve the Lord as He led? Through relocation they served. Did they leave it up to others? No, they took the risks of enemies attacking there. Will we be the 1 out of 10 willing to go where He leads? Are we walking by faith?

Luke quotes Jesus in 14:33, So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot  be My disciple.

LET IT GO

Be careful not to get too settled in that I am not open to moving as the Lord leads in relocation.
Pray for our leaders.

Signed, Sealed, and Delivered

O. T. #1071 "Signed, Sealed, and Delivered"
Oct. 2, 2017
Nehemiah 10

LET IT GLOW

How is our commitment thermometer? We should check it every so often, don't you think? The community of Jews signed, sealed, and delivered theirs, renewing a covenant.

Many Israelites signed and sealed written commitment to follow God and obey His Word totally. Listed in the first 28 verses are:

• the 2 civil leaders, Nehemiah and Zedekiah;
• 21 priestly leaders (Ezra belonged to the family of Seraiah);
• 17 Levite leaders;
• and 44 political leaders;
• the res of the people who did not sign the document agreed verbally to follow it.

The returnees wanted a sworn oath from every citizen in their community to obey God's Law and Commandments. Also, if hey disobeyed, then God's curse would fall upon them.
God's Word instructs us how to live. This is how a society has peace and prosperity, being built upon God and His Word. As believers, we should desire such a society.

Paul told us in Romans13:4, For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.

If we need hope, endurance, and comfort, we can find it within the Word of God.

LET IT GROW

This binding agreement or covenant had 6 provisions. They agreed:

1. not to marry non-Jewish neighbors (verse 30),
2. to observe the Sabbath each day (verse 31), 
3. to observe every seventh year as a Sabbath year (verse 31),
4. to pay a Temple tax (verse 32-33),
5. to supply wood for the burnt offerings in the Temple (verse 34), and
6. to give dues to the Temple (verses 35-38).

How is our faith, obedience, holiness, and devotion to God and His Word?

LET IT GO

Advise the younger generation to on marry believers.
Observe Sunday as the Lord's Day and set it aside to worship Him.
Give my tithe to the church.
Aide in supplying the needs of the church.
Stay devoted to God's Word, studying and applying.

Looking Around and Ahead

O. T. #1070  "Looking Around and Ahead"
Sept. 29, 2017
Nehemiah 9-Part 3


LET IT GLOW

What do you see if you look around at your circumstances? If I  take a few minutes to look around at my situation, I would see two sick guys at my house, my husband and cat. Yesterday was a rough third day after hubby's knee replacement. Hopefully, it will get better from now on. As for my cat, I didn't realize he was sick until yesterday. But he ate some tuna and is looking better. Spending 2 hours on the road and my days at the hospital took my attention away from the cat. Hopefully, he is on the mend, too. I prayed for both. I know God can heal both. He has done it before. The Israelites were praying the same way.


We are taking a closer look at the structure and purposes of this faith-inspiring prayer in chapter 9, which has four dimensions, according to Charles Swindoll:

1. The first dimension of prayer is looking up (adoration and praise). verses 5-6
2. The second dimension of prayer is looking back (reflection and thanksgiving). verses 7-18
3. The third dimension of prayer is looking around (petition and confession). verses 19-31

The Israelites' prayer moved from the past to the present. They focused on confession, freely admitting tat they were facing hardships because of their sins. They pleaded with the Lord to enter into the pin they felt as they lived in their own land under the yoke of another nation.
The all-knowing knew the suffering and pain of His children long before they recognized it themselves. He understood their needs. They still brought their petition to Him, sharing their struggles and pleading with Him to intercede. The very act of placing their burdens at His feet signified their faith in His goodness and their submission to His sovereign will. (Swindoll)

Peter tells us our solution in 1 Peter 5:7:
Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. 

Are we making the choice of casting our care upon Jesus? It means consciously handing over our anxiety to Christ and allowing Him to carry the weight of our problem.
Is it hard to turn them over?
Is our self-reliance and worry holding us back?
Are we trying to deal with something our self?
Do we consider there to be God-sized problems and our-sized problems?
Will you let Him carry your load today?


LET IT GROW

         4. The fourth dimension of prayer is looking ahead in commitment and direction.

As the Israelites looked toward their future, they remembered the terrible consequences of disobedience  their forefathers suffered. Their future would be the same if they did not change.
They were in a predicament-slaves in their own land. The Israelites had to give a portion of their resources to a foreign king.

The Jews made a binding agreement in writing on a sealed document containing the names of their leaders, Levites, and priests. Those are listed in chapter 10.

Are we applying the four dimensions of prayer-praise, thanksgiving, petition, and commitment as we commune with our God?

LET IT GO

Praise God for ho He is.
Thank God for what He has done.
Ask His help.
Obey His will.

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.

Praising

O. T. #1068  "Praising"
Sept. 26, 2017
Nehemiah 9


LET IT GLOW

Thank you for your prayers. My husband made it through knee surgery and now for the painful rehab.

Two days after the festival in chapter 8, the Israelites assembled together, fasting, dressed in sackclothes, and ashes upon them, a sign of mourning, ad separated themselves from all unbelievers. In their worship service, the Jews read God's Word for 3 hours, then spent 3 hours confessing their sins. The Levites led their worship, praise, and prayer The were divided into 2 groups, calling  the name of the LORD.

The Israelites sought God through praise and thanksgiving. They praised God for:

1. His supremacy-He is eternal, Creator, and His name is to be exulted above all, or He alone is God. (verse 5)
2. His creation-He made the universe, heaven and earth, and all therein. (verse 7)
3. for choosing Abraham and calling him for such a great purpose; he had a faithful heart, receiving the covenant of the Promised Land and for his descendants. God kept His promises. (verse 8)
4. for delivering His people from Egypt's slavery by diving the Red Sea and drowning the Egyptians. God made a lasting name for Himself.(verses 9-10)  Also, for guiding His people through the wilderness. (verses 11-12)
5. giving the Law and the Sabbath through Moses. (verses 13-14)
6. His provision of food and water. (verse 15)
7. forgiving the sins of a proud, stiff-necked, and disobedient people. (verses 16-18)
8. sustaining His people as they walked toward the Promised Land. (verses 19-23)
9. strength and power to conquer their enemies. (verses 24-25)
10. His mercy and forgiveness, despite continued and persistent backsliding. (verses 26-29)
11. His prophets and their warning to repent. (verses 30-31)

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


LET IT GROW

The prayer of the Israelites reached in our directions, spanning history from creation to their present day and even looking into the future through:

• praise and adoration (verses 5-6)
• thanksgiving for all God did in their past (verses 7-31)
• looking at their present situation and petitioning the Lord (verses 32-37)
• commitment to future obedience (verse 38). (Swindoll)

We will take a closer look at all of this example written down by Nehemiah. What a heart bent toward God he had as he spiritually led his people. So man lessons for us are found in this chapter.
Will we let god teach us His ways
Will we surrender to them?


LET IT GO

Lord Jesus, teach me Your ways and Your Word to live by and share.
Open my heart to hear from you.

From This Time Forward

O. T. #1067  "From This Time Forward"
Sept. 25, 2017
Nehemiah 8-Part 3
And there was very great gladness. Nehemiah 8:17b

LET IT GLOW

Perhaps it was during a revival meeting, or after a near death experience, or after God brought us through a trying time in our life, that we made the commitment from this time forward to follow Jesus with all of our heart. We decided to be faithful to reading His Word daily, praying deeper, and obeying the leading of His Spirit. Such a commitment is usually followed by repentance of our sins. Then joy comes as it did with the Israelites in this chapter.

The Jews listened to Ezra read the Law of Moses for 6 hours. Then they repented, rejoiced, and ate food and drank, sharing with others.
What happened on the second day of their gathering together?

• There was a meeting of family leaders, priests, and Levites met with Ezra the scribe to go over the Law in greater detail.  (verse 13)
• While studying the Law, they discovered the Lord commanded Israel to live in shelters, tabernacles, booths, during the festival to be held during that very month. This celebration was known as the Feast of Tabernacles, which reminded Israel of their forefathers living in such tents as they wondered in the wilderness, freed from Egyptian slavery, and entering the Promised Land (conquering it). They gathered branches from olive, pine, myrtle, and palm trees for such a temporary housing lasting 7 days. It illustrated God's provision and protection during those years.
• Word was spread in all Jerusalem and their cities-it was time for the Feast of Tabernacles to be observed. (verse 15)
• These Jews obeyed God's Word as they built shelters in the courtyards, Temple courts, on the public squared of the Water Gate and the Ephraim Gate. (verse 16)
• They celebrated the festival with great joy, which had not been done since the days of Joshua.
• There was very great gladness. (verse 17)

Have we quit celebrating the Lord's Day, worshiping on Sunday our Risen Lord Jesus? We remember His birth and resurrection on days set aside for celebration, but are we thankful for them every day?

LET IT GROW

The celebration lasted 7 days as instructed in God's Word. During that time, Ezra read  in the book of the law of God daily. The long forgotten Feast of Tabernacles was faithfully reinstituted. What a spiritual awakening.

In his study guide, Hand Me Another Brick: Timeless Lessons on Leadership, Charles R. Swindoll gives this overview of chapter 8:

The Israelites met for a time of corporate prayer. The celebration brought them to an understanding of both the holiness of God and the depth of their sins, which led to an expression of deep sorrow and humility. Together they prayed, offering up sincere confession as well as thanksgiving and praise. And they committed to change-to study and obey God's commands from that point forward. The Israelites' example provides guidelines for the discipline of prayer that are meaningful, logical, and relevant for us today.

Are we wandering around in our wilderness without God's Word as a guide? Will we ask others the same question?
Have we made such a faithful follower commitment to Jesus lately? If not, today is a good day for it.
Is very great gladness missing in our life?

LET IT GO

Get back to serving Jesus more faithfully.
Obey His Word.
Praise Jesus for His freedom from sin.

*Please remember my husband as he has knee replacement today. Thanks y'all. Love you.

Rejoice

O. . #1066  "Rejoice"
Sept. 22, 2017
Nehemiah 8-Part 2
And Nehemiah continued, "Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. don't be dejected and sad, for the joy of the LORD is your strength!"  Nehemiah 8:10


LET IT GLOW

Our denomination enjoys fellowshiping over a meal. We have pot luck often, using any excuse to have it. Sometimes there is no reason at all for it. Today's lesson ends with a feast.

Ezra read from the Law of Moses for 6 hours as the people listened attentively. He praised their great God. The Jews responded by raising their hands, saying "Amen," and bowing down to the ground to worship God. Then Ezra instructed the 13 Levites standing beside him to explain the meaning of the Word in  their own language.
Interestingly, the word people is mentioned 15 times and understanding is used 6 times in verses 1-13. so the focus was upon the people understanding the Word of God. The massive crowd could have contained as many as 50,000 people so not all understood the Hebrew language.

The study of God's Word produces two results-mourning over the conviction of sin and rejoicing of the heart. As the people were convicted of sin, they were weeping and mourning, which began to interrupt the service. Once they confessed and repented of their sins, the LORD forgave them. Then, instead of mourning and weeping, they were to celebrate by feasting and sharing with those who were in need. They were to stop grieving and give thanks and praise to the LORD for His forgiveness. And that the Jews did. They celebrated with great joy because they had heard God's Word and understood them. Their celebration was not self-centered because they shared with others that were without.
Did you know this Bible conference was held for a week? (verse 18)

Is the Lord the joy of our strength?
Paul said to believers in Philippians 4:13,  I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. In 4:4, he said, Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, Rejoice.

Are the Scriptures making us joyful?
Do we apply all the day long, what we have learned in our Bible study?

Together we sing, holy is the Lord God Almighty, the earth is filled with His glory. As I type this, I hear this song on my radio. What great timing!

LET IT GROW

This was a special month in the life of the Israel. Three significant events were to take place during the seventh month:

1. the Feast of Trumpets was celebrated on the first day, was later celebrated as the New Year on the Jewish calendar;
2. the Day of Atonement was celebrated on the tenth day;
3. the Feast of Tabernacles was celebrated on the fifteenth day.

A thousand years elapsed between  Moses' writing of the Law and Ezra's reading of the Law. (Wiersbe)

LET IT GO

Repent of my sins.
Let the Lord fill my heart with joy.
Share with others.

Listening

O. T #1065  "Listening"
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)

The people gathered at the Water Gate where Ezra gave a powerful and moving sermon from the law of Moses. Did they have a hungering for God's Word? Evidently so, because Ezra read it for 6 hours, as they were attentive.
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.

Pioneers of Faith

O. T. #1064  "Pioneers of Faith"
Sept. 20, 2017
Nehemiah 7-Part 2
Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee: because he trusteth in Thee. Trust in the LORD forever: for in the LORD Jehovah is everlasting strength. 
Isaiah 26:3-4

LET IT GLOW

Pioneers of faith. Are there people who come to your mind when it is mentioned? I can think of several in our home church, yet they have gone on to heaven now. They remained faithful to God during their lifetime. And the lasting influence they had on us. Their teachings and encouragements kept us going to where we are now. The Jews had some pioneers of faith, too. Shall we check them out?

At that time, the city was large and spacious, but the population was small, and none of the houses had been rebuilt. So God gave Nehemiah the idea (heart) to call together all the nobles and leaders of the city, along with the ordinary citizens, for registration (genealogy). verses 4-5, NLT/KJV

It had been 69 years since Zerrubbabel led the first group of Jews back to Jerusalem. They came out of a 70 year captivity in Babylon and Persia. Obviously, they were old or dead by this time. Then there were those who returned with Ezra. which was 12 years earlier. Those groups had rebuilt the Temple and the sacrificial system of worship, only to turn away from it during those 57 years before Ezra returned.

It was to the pioneers of faith that God wanted to rebuild His nation, have a new life, occupy the Promised Land, and experience His blessings. These people listed here were ancestors of the faith. They genuinely trusted God, believed He would fulfill His promise to send the future King and Savior, Messiah-Jesus Christ-into the world through them.
Nehemiah wanted such people as citizens of Jerusalem, people of strong faith and commitment in the promises of God. He insisted the population of Jerusalem be of pure Jewish blood or descent. (11:1-24)

Can we be called pioneers of faith within our family and church?
Do we trust God with all our heart?


LET IT GROW

Note that this census of genealogy is about the same as the one found in Ezra 2. A few names and numbers differ. The scribes copying the original may have messed up accuracy.

The Preacher's Outline and Sermon Bible gives us 10 points of an outline, breading down the genealogy of those registered:

1. The original leaders: Zerubbabel (the governor), Jeshua (the High Priest), and 10 others listed in verses 6-7.
2. The various families or clans in verses 8-25.
3. People from various cities and towns in verses 26-38.
4. The priests in verses 39-42.
5. Levites, including Levite singers and gatekeepers in verses 43-45.
6. Temple servants and the servants of Solomon, including descendants of various clans and of several servants of Solomon in verses 46-60.
7. People whose ancestry was questionable and could not be proven: The Babylonian town from which they came; the 3 families or clans from which they descended; the priest who had no record to prove they were true priests in verses 61-65. Those were excluded from the priesthood and not given the priests' share of sacred food until their priesthood was established.
8. The totals-of exiles or captives; the servants; the singers; the livestock found in verses 66-69.
9. The contributions given to the work-what the governor, other leaders, and other people gave is listed in verses 70-72.
10. The settlement of the returning exiles, towns from which their families had been taken into captivity and exiled to Babylon in verse 73. This was throughout Israel.

Now, that was a long list. However, God considered it important or He would not have had Nehemiah write it down. Verse 66 gives the sum total of people who returned to Judah as 42,360. (If you want it broken down, NLT gives it.)

I believe God has put us in a particular family for His purpose. Perhaps it is in order for us to be His witness. Are we a faithful servant of Jesus Christ, sharing His coming again, and our home in heaven that awaits us?


LET IT GO

Be a pioneer of faith to this generation, remaining faithful to the end.
Pray for my family members.
Pray for my church.

Singing with Joy

O. T. #1063  "Singing with Joy"
Sept. 19, 2017
Nehemiah 7


LET IT GLOW

In verse 1 Nehemiah appointed singers.
The spirit of praise is the spirit of power. This means we should be a rejoicing group of folk, but joy is often absent from the contemporary church. It is not made up of  happy group of people. Bible study is not a joy to them.  (J. Vernon McGee)

Paul tells us in Ephesians 5:18-19, And be not drunk with wine, wherein is access; but be filled with the Spirit; speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.

Are we encouraging others with songs, psalms? Do w make melody in our heart to the Lord?



LET IT GROW

After the 52 days spent rebuilding and repairing the wall around Jerusalem, Nehemiah organized security and the leadership there. It was not enough for it to be standing tall wall, providing protection against enemies outside, but they had to prevent enemies from entering the city to do them harm. The city was great and large, but the people were few. (verse 4)

The Preacher's Outline and Sermon Bible describes what Nehemiah did to secure Jerusalem:

• He appointed the gatekeepers. (verse 1) They usually guarded the doors of the Temple, but because of the continuing threat by the surrounding nations, Nehemiah appointed them to stand guard at the gates of the city.
• He assigned to the singers and Levites, assistants to the priests, the additional duty of helping the gatekeepers guard the city. This protected against any enemy's infiltrating the population to carry out terrorist actions.
• He appointed 2 military leaders, each one being assigned the responsibility for half the city.
• One was Nehemiah's brother, Hanani. He was the man who originally brought the dark report of the walls to Nehemiah when he was the king's cupbearer. (1:2)
• The other military leader was Hananiah, who had earlier been appointed commander of the citadel or palace. (3:8) He was a man of integrity who feared God. 
• Those two leaders were to immediately set security measures in place. (verse 3) Rumors of impending attacks had been spreading across the countryside.
• Nehemiah instructed them to make sure the gates were open only after sunrise.
• They were to organize a neighborhood watch, posting citizens on the wall by their own houses.

Two things were needed-more people and more housing. Their population was not enough to protect the city. Also, they needed more housing or more people to live there. (verse 4)

LET IT GO

Be grateful to God for all He has given me.
Sing His praises throughout today.

Keep on to the End

O. T.#1062  "Keep on to the End"
Sept. 18, 2017
Nehemiah 6-Part 3
If, when you do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. For even hereunto, were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps. 2 Peter 2:21

LET IT GLOW

This was the third year our church held a teen girls retreat. Everyone worked hard to make it a success. God  worked in and through the women leaders, the musicians, and the speaker. He worked in the hearts of the girls and 6 were saved this past Saturday. Only God can save a sinner. We give Him the glory and praise. Nehemiah and the Jews worked hard on the wall and gates around Jerusalem. For about a century and a half the walls laid in ruins.

Finally, it was finished! In the hottest part of the year, the Jewish builders worked day and night, day after day, until the wall around Jerusalem was completed. Amazingly, it only took 52 days, less than 2 months, to get the job done.  Only God could have done this through them. He works through faithful people; it is God who works.

Perseverance was essential in the task completion by the Jews. They worked until it was done. In spite of opposition, disaggreeance, there is the tendency to quit when it gets tough.

How is our perseverance in these scenarios?

• marriage,
• raising children,
• working at our job,
• leading projects,
• teaching a class at church,
• staying faithful to Christ?

LET IT GROW

What impact did the completion have on their enemies?

• They were disheartened, for they had failed to stop the project.
• They were frightened since Jerusalem would grow stronger with God's help.

It is revealed in verses 17-19 how Tobiah found out what Nehemiah was doing during the work. He communicated with nobles in Judah, since he married into a Jewish family. His son had married one o the workers on the wall. Also, h had a close relationship with the high priest. Jewish leaders were loyal to Tobiah, probably due to business dealings. These informers spoke of the happenings. They even tried to persuade Nehemiah that Tobiah was a good ole boy. Those tattletales!

People in leadership often receive nasty notes, rude e-mails, mean text messages, belligerent voicemails, or even old-fashioned hate mail, trying to intimidate leaders with personal attacks. One mean-spirited comment can trump a dozen glowing praises. Leaders nee discernment in order to weed out such comments. Because Nehemiah was on his knees, he was able to face the threats without giving in or loosing sight of his ultimate goal. (Swindoll)



LET IT GO

Keep on keepin' on.

Slander and Lies

O. T. #1061 "Slander and Lies"
Sept 15, 2017
Nehemiah 6-Part 2
The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.  Proverbs 29:25

LET IT GLOW

We mentioned the three different schemes the enemies of Nehemiah and the Jews that were used in an effort to stop the building of the Jerusalem wall. God's people experience them, also.
First was compromise and cooperation with worldly unbelievers. Second was slander, rumor, and lies. Third was acting cowardly and disobeying God.

Nehemiah thought carefully about his response to the 5 letters the enemies sent. He knew the charges were false and slanderous. There was no truth at all. He was not planning a revolt against the king nor planning to attack the surrounding nations.

How did Nehemiah respond?

• He forcefully denied the slander and lies. (verse 8)
• He boldly charged the enemy with lying and deception.
• He prayed for strength. (verse 9)

Slander and lies cause intense pain and often destroys a persons reputation and character. Gossip can be included in the list.

Do we have a strong character of integrity? Are we walking in the truth of God's Holy Word?
Are we obeying His commandments? Do we live righteously before the public?

LET IT GROW

Nehemiah's enemies devised a third scheme, leading him to act cowardly and disobey God. They hired a priest to deceive Nehemiah and lead him into a trap. He was warned of an assassination plot and suggested they hid in the Temple.

Nehemiah's refusal:

• to act cowardly in fleeing;
• to disobey God by entering the Holy Place, in which only priests were allowed to enter. (Numbers 18:7) He did not want to sin against God.
• Nehemiah knew his enemies had hired the priest.

Sometime later, when he was alone, Nehemiah prayed, asking God to execute justice against Tobiah and Sanballat, the prophetess Noadiah, and other unnamed prophets who opposed God's work.

Dare we pray for justice in situations? Can we stand for what is right?
David stood against the giant Goliath, who blasphemed God, and was victorious.
Gideon's small army won the battle through faith in Almighty God.


LET IT GO

Stand strong in faith for God.
Continue to obey His Word.
Ask for discernment.
Recognize lies.

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.