Nehemiah 9:38-10:39

Much of Nehemiah records the story of a great man and his actions for God. Yet rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem was only a means to an end, not the end itself. The larger goal was the rebuilding of God’s people. In the rebuilding of the wall the people found courage and hope but now it was their turn to take action. Like the wall of the city the faith of God’s people had been broken down. They’d abandoned their worship and for generations lived like God didn’t exist. Yet in their repentance, their change of heart, God’s mercy was available to restore them. In this historic moment they take their first step back by a commitment to restore their worship and the responsibilities of worship in the house of God.

Despite all we know about God’s love and purpose for our lives, many today also live as if God did not exist. We wouldn’t describe it that way but our lives tell a different story. We neglect reading God’s word, disobey his commands and withhold our resources from the church. Salvation is God’s gift, but the life God promises in his Word requires choices and daily commitments. Those commitments begin with God, a commitment to follow his laws and obey his commands. This also implies a growing commitment to personal holiness. The people of God in Nehemiah’s day had lost their distinctiveness and therefore lost the power of God on their lives. God never ceased loving them but they had ceased from serving His purpose in the world. We too have been called to serve his purposes with our lives. To be salt and light to a dark world. This is not accomplished in a single decision but a daily commitment to pursue our relationship with God and deepen in our understanding and commitment to His Word. No matter where you are in journey you can begin making this commitment today.

Your fellow traveler,
Pastor Rob