Today’s Tasting: Nehemiah 1-5
Nehemiah is a book written about the rebuilding of Jerusalem. The author, Nehemiah, was the official cupbearer to King Artaxerxes. Cupbearers were highly honored and trusted officials, having a close personal relationship with the King.
Today’s Nourishment: In the opening of the book, Nehemiah learns that the remnant of Judah are in distress and reproach. The walls of Jerusalem have been broken down and burned. I had heard of reproach, which I learned means, disapproval and disappointment.
I’m sure I’m not the only one who has ended up with parts of my life in reproach – disapproved and disappointed. It seems many people say, “This is not the way I thought my life would end up!” Have your families or homes been broken down or burned? Mine sure were. Drug addiction and sin tore my family apart.
Just as Nehemiah, I wept and mourned for days—then I started fasting and praying before the God of heaven. I asked God, as Nehemiah did, for restoration of my family and home. King Artaxerxes granted Nehemiah permission to rebuild.
Adversaries confronted those rebuilding the walls with oppositions of ridicule and military attacks. The men worked to rebuild the wall with one hand, while they held spears, shields, bows and breastplates with the other.
Often in my personal life when opposition strikes I doubt that I’m following God’s leading. It is encouraging for me to remind myself that just because you are following God’s will doesn’t mean everything will flow smoothly. Usually it’s quite the opposite.
Has opposition struck you and tested against God’s plan for your life? Pick up your sword, fast, and pray. God is faithful and no respecter of persons. Just as He began and continues to rebuild my family, He can and wants to rebuild the broken places in your lives.
Share with us in the comment section the areas of your life that opposition has struck. We will pray with you to see our faithful God rebuild those broken places.
Tomorrow’s Delight: Nehemiah 6-7
Kelly Quinn, South Carolina, wife to Artie, mama to seven
Great post, Kelly. I like the way you make Today’s Tasting Scripture passage relevant to us today. And, thank God that He rebuilds families. I have seen that happen for your family.