Today’s Tasting: Nehemiah 8-10
Nehemiah believed that as God would restore Israel, Ezra believed that God would restore His Word to His people. Both took responsibility to see that they met spiritual and physical needs.
As the Jews returned to Jerusalem, they had lost the understanding of their native language. In order for the people to understand the reading of the Book of Moses, interpreters from the Levites were strategically placed throughout the people as Ezra read from:
“The Book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people could understand what was being read” (Nehemiah 8:7-8 NIV).
They interpreted the reading from God’s Word into languages that they knew and explained the meaning of the Law of God. The people wept because for the first time among this generation, they understood the things of God. Ezra and Nehemiah taught them about the Feasts and Celebrations of God.
Israel responded with worship and celebration of the feasts, which restored relationship with God. Ezra set this day as a holy day and said,
“Eat, drink, and celebrate. Don’t be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10 ESV).
Israel rejoiced because they understood the holy words of God written in His Law. Such hearing stirred unity, strength, and joy among the people.
Today’s Nourishment: When is the last or the first time you were moved with joy to read and understand The Word of God? I recently heard a pastor from India with a congregation of one-hundred twenty-five-thousand people, and many read the entire Bible through monthly. Yes, you read that right, once a month many read the Bible through, which totals to around forty chapters per day. The pastor continued to say,
“In the beginning was the Word and the Word must be our beginning….”
How is the joy of the Lord your strength because of reading and understanding The Word of God? How is The Word of God your beginning? Share with us:
Tomorrow’s Delight: Nehemiah 11-13; Psalm 126
Carolyn Marlowe, CCLC
Gigi to six adorable grandchildren
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