Nehemiah 7:73-9:21; 1 Corinthians 9:1-18; Psalm 33:12-22; Proverbs 21:11-12
What is your view about the Word of God and its effect on your life? When you hear its words read or taught, what is your response? As Nehemiah restores true worship to Israel, Ezra brings the Book of the Law of Moses and reads for about 5-6 hours to all the men, women and children who were old enough to understand. The Levites were dispatched among the crowd and helped the people understand as the Law was read.
As they heard the Word of God, they were so moved by it, that they wept. We are not told why they wept. It could have been from conviction about their sins or confidence in a God who loved them enough to give them clear instructions. Nevertheless, Nehemiah tells the people that on the day that they hear and understand the law, it should bring joy and celebration!
God’s Word is so vital to our lives and it should never be taken lightly. If Nehemiah encouraged the people to have joy from just reading the Law of Moses, how much more should we who have the New Testament be filled with joy knowing how much God loves us and has a purpose and plan for us. It is this joy that strengthens us to keep moving forward towards our destiny. “The teaching of your word gives light, so even the simple can understand.” (Psalm 119:130)
Tomorrow’s Reading: Nehemiah 9:22-10:39; 1 Corinthians 9:19-10:13; Psalm 34:1-10; Proverbs 21:13
Amen!