Day 271 – Nehemiah 8-10

Talking Points

• In chapter 8, a great thing happens — The people are reacquainted with the Word of God. Ezra the scribe takes his place at a raised, wooden podium (the pattern for our modern pulpits). In full view and hearing of the people who’ve assembled “as one man,” he begins to voice the speech of God once again (Nehemiah 8:1). In great awe, the people stand in the reverence of the reading of God’s Word, literally for hours.
• Not only is the law of God read, it is also carefully explained. Teachers help make the words people are hearing understandable. It’s interesting how God has intertwined the preaching and teaching of His Word. He wants us to hear it, but also to know and understand it.
• The Word of God is a wonderful thing! Notice the multifaceted response to its proclamation. People stand in reverence and honor; they also fall to the ground, bowed in humility. They celebrate joyfully; they are also moved to sorrow and many tears. They are encouraged in the faithfulness of God; they are also broken and convicted over their sin. And, with all the varied responses, there is one great theme — God is to be worshiped! In fact, the responses to God’s Word are themselves worship.
• Something to catch here — God’s Word changes hearts. Notice, in chapter 8 the law of God is read and explained. Then, in chapter 9, great praise ensues. Finally, in chapter 10, there is a radical desire to walk in obedience. God’s Word changes hearts. May our journey through it change ours as well.

Thoughts

Reading through these chapters stirred a question in me: Why do we have such a hard time committing to deeply being in God’s Word? If it leads us away from sin (it does), if it leads us to see Him more clearly (it does), and if it actually changes our hearts (it will), why is it so hard to be found passionately consumed with it?

Maybe it’s distraction and busyness? Maybe it’s because we don’t like conviction? Maybe it’s because it requires effort and work? Maybe it’s because we don’t see the value? We could go on and on…

Honestly, the reason why doesn’t matter. The reason why doesn’t change the reality — knowing God’s Word bears radical fruit in our lives! It is what leads us to see sin and run to the Savior for sin, Jesus. It is what leads us to know that Savior and love Him more deeply. It is what produces resounding peace in the process.

Our call today is this — forget the reasons! Resolve anew, today, to be a person of His Word. He will bless it. He has promised to.