Day 272 – Nehemiah 11-13, Psalm 126

Talking Points

• A system of structure is established in the land: One tenth of the men will reside in Jerusalem, to maintain and keep the city. The rest will live in their own cities, the lands of their inheritance. Both are important for the future of the nation. Consider God’s wisdom in giving order to life. It matters how His people live!
• Nehemiah is a terrific example of a faithful life, or better yet, a life lived according to faith. He is so confident in his steps, that he can ask God to remember his good works. Our desire should be the same. May our faith radically order our steps and may Christ be glorified in each one.
• Even blessed with returning from exile and even having seen God’s great acts of deliverance, some are still tempted to return to “business as usual” and neglecting to uphold the Sabbath day. When the gates are shut, some merchants are camping outside waiting for this religious interruption to be finished so trade can resume. That temptation never ends! Today, let’s ask the Lord to help us fight the urge to rush through our times of worship.
• There is an important lesson to see in the account of Tobiah. Remember: he was an antagonist to Nehemiah, causing him great grief. Remember: he was a hindrance to God’s work, actually opposing what God was doing. Then, as the book wraps up, notice where we find him: living in a storeroom of the temple! Somehow, he’s managed to work himself right into the middle of God’s people. Amazingly, he has managed to find a platform for his poisonous influence. Again, we see that God’s enemies will work to stay close to the work of God. Take note of what Nehemiah does. Unapologetically, he throws Tobiah and all his stuff out. Not only that, but he cleans his room and all the neighboring rooms. God’s leaders must be bold in removing harmful influences — the good opinion of God’s name is at stake.

Thoughts

As the book of Nehemiah ends, there is one picture worth looking at again. Picture it. With the exiles now returned, with the walls rebuilt in strength and majesty, with order reestablished, with their reproach fading each day into distant memories, and with a great future promised, God’s people worship! Song leaders are summoned. Two choirs assembled. Horns are blasted and harps are strummed. The people excitedly crowd in with the children cheerfully present. And, the joyful songs of praise are so loud that “the joy of Jerusalem was heard from afar” (Nehemiah 12:43). What a great testimony! God is faithful and He has delivered. His people are blessed, their sins are forgiven, and their future secured. The air is full of His praises. What a sight!

Today, how could my response be any different? Just think — In Jesus, my sins have also been forgiven. My reproach is also lifted. I am also restored and renewed. In Jesus, God has promised me a great future. So, in Jesus, let my mouth joyfully sing — so loud the neighbors can hear!

O for a thousand tongues to sing
My great Redeemer’s praise,
The glories of my God and King,
The triumphs of his grace!

It starts with one.