When turbulence comes, I turn crimson when people raise a problematic issue but then say: “Nothing can be done”. Today’s chapter shows the right way to go about assuming responsibility when a solution can be found…
READ NEHEMIAH 1 Make notes, if you’d like, of what stands out for you. Feel free to use the “Leave a Comment” box below to also write some of your thoughts.
A THOUGHT FOR TODAY:
One of my “pet hates” is listening to all the problems raised by someone who is convinced that nothing can be done. If nothing can be done, why talk about the problem at all? Convinced that a solution can be found however, I tend to bowl right in with possible solutions, take over, and assume responsibility.
In today’s chapter, Nehemiah (a Jewish exile sitting in the capital city of the Persian Empire around 42oBC) specifically sort out news of the ruins in Jerusalem and the plight of his people. [v2] Although he was living in comfort (compared to most) as the cupbearer to the Emperor of Persia, the dire news from afar touched him profoundly. But far from giving up hope in “a higher power”, after weeping and fasting for some days, Nehemiah turned to prayer. [v4] Instead of criticizing the Creator God for His apparent disinterest and inaction by saying: “How can a loving God allow these things to happen?” Nehemiah rested his hope of future change, on the promises of his past. [v8-9] Then, convinced that prayer works, He set about assuming responsibility by taking action. [v11]
Read More? …CLICK on “06 July – Additional Notes”
But what about your thoughts – can you tell me what today’s “breadcrumb” is? Leave a note in the “Comments” box below to tell me what you think of today’s chapter.
Wanting to speak directly with the One in control of it all? The rest of this webpage uses Jesus’ own prayer to help…[a]
THE LORD’S PRAYER:
1. Praise: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name. Your Kingdom come! Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven …”
I’ll sing of Your loving-kindness forever, Lord! To all generations I’ll make known Your faithfulness with my mouth. For I have said, “Loving-kindness will be built up forever; in the heavens You’ll establish Your faithfulness! [Psalm 89:1-2]
2. Ask: “…Give us today our daily bread…”
- The World: God’s Grace on Indonesia[b]
- Your Country: College Campus Ministries
- Yourself: Your extended family
- Your concerns for today
I want to rejoice always, Lord, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances; for this is Your will for me. [1 Thessalonians 5:16-18]
3. Admit: “…Forgive us our sin as we forgive those who sin against us…”
It’s true Lord that when I’ve walked away from you my life experience is halved; my resources have dwindled and all the work of my hands seem to crumble as if with blight, mildew and hail. May I not be stubborn, Father, help me to relent and return to You. [Haggai 2:16-17]
4. Protect: “…Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.”
Whatever I’m going to face today, Father, help me to remember my future: that on Your great Day of the Lord, You’ll gather me and bring me home. You’ll give me honour and praise among all the peoples of the earth, when You restore my fortunes before my very eyes! [Zephaniah 3:20]
“For Yours Lord is the Kingdom, the Power and the Glory now and forever. Amen!”
When questioned, tested, tricked or in His hour of great need, Jesus spoke what was previously written in God’s Word.[c] So, the final section on this page is about memorizing our Maker’s script through 10 topics. Following these will help you learn 52 portions from His Handbook in a year! THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE: Our Maker’s Handbook
“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.” [2 Timothy 2:15]
[a] Matthew 6:5-15
[b] http://www.operationworld.org/country/indo/owtext.html
[c] Matthew 4:4,6,7,10; 11:10; 21:13; and 26:24,31