Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Read Ezra 1 -- 2

Highlights:

God stirred the hearts: 1st of King Cyrus to send the Israelites to rebuild the Temple and return its vessels confiscated by Nebuchadnezzar (Ezra 1:1-3,7-11); 2nd of the priests, Levites, tribal leaders, and others to willingly return to Jerusalem (1:5); 3rd of the ones left to help pay the expenses (1:6).
About 200 years before the time of Ezra, Isaiah had prophesied that Babylon would be overthrown by a man named Cyrus. The Lord said of this heathen king of Persia: He . . . shall perform all My pleasure: even saying to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be built; and to the Temple, Thy foundation shall be laid. . . . and he shall let go My captives (Is. 44:28; 45:13). These prophecies reassured the Israelites that, following the judgment foretold by Jeremiah of 70 years of captivity due to their sins, God would restore them once again to the promised land (Jer. 25:11-12).

To fulfill that prophecy, the LORD stirred up the spirit (moved the heart) of Cyrus king of Persia, that he made a proclamation. . . . Who is there among you of all His people? his God be with him, and let him go up to Jerusalem, which is in Judah, and build the House of the LORD God of Israel, (He is the God,) which is in Jerusalem. . . . Then rose up the chief of the fathers of Judah and Benjamin, and the priests, and the Levites, with all them whose spirit God had raised, to go up to build the House of the LORD which is in Jerusalem (Ezra 1:1,3,5).

Neither a pillar of fire by night nor a cloud by day to guide the way, and no manna fell from heaven as experienced many years before by their ancestors (Num. 9:15-16,22-23), but there is not one complaint recorded. This is in sharp contrast to the continual complaints of their ancestors, who had been miraculously released from Egypt (20:24; 27:14; Deut. 1:26,43; 9:23).

When we recognize that our Sovereign Creator controls everything that affects our lives, we can truly enjoy the peace of God, regardless of what happens, since all things work together for good to them that love God (Rom. 8:28). Believing this will remove all fear, depression, and discouragement, as well as faultfinding, anger, and strife. Our loving Lord is sovereign over all that takes place in our lives, including suffering and pain, and will use whatever happens in our lives to our ultimate advantage. Because of this, we can live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you (us) (II Cor. 13:11).

Thought for Today:

Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the First Commandment. And the Second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other Commandment greater (more important) than these (Mark 12:30-31).
Christ Portrayed:

By Sheshbazzar, another name for Zerubbabel, the prince (governor) of Judah (Ezra 1:. Christ is both The Prince of Peace (Is. 9:6) and the Lion of the tribe of Juda (Rev. 5:5).
Word Studies:

1:6 strengthened their hands =gave them assistance; 2:43 Nethinims =temple servants; 2:63 Tirshatha =governor.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for our Military worldwide • Staff: Dr. John A. Hash • Government Officials: Rep. Tim Bishop (NY) and Rep. Gregg Harper (MS) • Country: Madagascar (15 million) an island in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Mozambique • Major languages: French and Malagasy • Increasingly anti-Christian • 43% witchcraft, ancestor worship, and some astrology; 21% Protestant; 21% Roman Catholic; 2% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Be grateful for your inheritance as a child of the King (I Pet. 1:3-4).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 3

NOTE: Bible Pathway covers the Old Testament with devotional and commentary insights over a nine-month period, January through September. Each day during these months, an optional reading of one chapter a day from the New Testament will also be listed. The October, November, and December issues will provide a daily commentary on the New Testament readings. Thus, the reader goes through the New Testament twice each year using the Bible Pathway plan.
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:31

[Judy Harder]

Read Ezra 3 -- 5

Highlights:

The work began! Check their priorities — the altar was rebuilt and then burnt offerings were offered (Ezra 3:2-3). The foundation was finished (3:10-13) and enemies slandered and complained to Darius the king (5:.
After returning to Jerusalem, the Jews first built the altar of the God of Israel, to offer burnt offerings. . . . for fear was upon them because of the people of those countries. . . . (who) troubled them in building, And . . . to frustrate their purpose (Ezra 3:2-3; 4:4-5). And they . . . offered burnt offerings . . . morning and evening. They kept also the Feast of Tabernacles, as it is written. . . . But the foundation of the Temple of the LORD was not yet laid. . . . When the builders laid the foundation of the Temple of the LORD . . . the priests . . . and the Levites. . . . sang . . . praising and giving thanks unto the LORD (3:3-11).

It is recorded that many men, when the foundation of this House was laid before their eyes, wept with a loud voice; and many shouted aloud for joy (3:12). Perhaps they were weeping over what might have been had they not ignored the prophet's warning that continued sin would result in their destruction. Perhaps others rejoiced as they looked forward to the day when the Temple would be rebuilt.

It is right for us to sorrow over our past sins which have brought the judgment of God upon us, just as the Israelites did. But, after repenting and forsaking our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins (I John 1:9). We should not continue to grieve over past losses that blur opportunities for the present and the future but thank Him for His mercy and grace. Nor should we glory in our past achievements and successes. Daily we need to move on with our lives and join in praising and giving thanks unto the LORD (Ezra 3:11). The Apostle Paul reminds us: Forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark (goal) for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus (Phil. 3:13-14).

A lesson we gain from these devout Jews is that, as we seek to serve the Lord, we will face opposition. During the rebuilding of the Temple's foundation the people of the land . . . troubled them in building. . . . Then ceased the work of the House of God which is at Jerusalem (Ezra 4:4,24).

Let us look ahead with confidence, not in ourselves, but in God and in the power of His might (Eph. 6:10).

Thought for Today:

Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. . . . Above all. . . . take . . . the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God: Praying always . . . with all perseverance and supplication (Eph. 6:11,16-18).
Christ Revealed:

Through the great (huge) stones used in building the Temple of God (Ezra 5:. Jesus Christ is the Stone which the builders refused (rejected) and He has become the Head Stone of the Corner (Cornerstone) of our faith (Ps. 118:22; Matt. 21:42).
Word Studies:

3:3 his bases =its original foundation; 3:8 set forward =oversee; 3:11 by course =by the assigned divisions of priests; 4:4 weakened the hands of =discouraged and frightened; 5:10 certify =inform.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mr. and Mrs. Casmir A. Zuranski • Bible Pathway Media Producer: Rick Hash • Government Official: Rep. Michael Rogers (MI) • Country: Malawi (10 million) in southeastern Africa • Major languages: English and Chichewa • Religious freedom • 34% Protestant; 23% Roman Catholic; 16% Muslim; 16% animist; 4% cults • Prayer Suggestion: Offer your gift of praise to God in prayer (I Pet. 2:5).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 4

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:31

[Judy Harder]

Read Ezra 6 -- 7

Highlights:

The flesh, the devil, and the world hindered the rebuilding of the Temple, but God overruled (Ezra 6:1-15). Joyously, Passover was celebrated (6:22)! Then came Ezra, a scribe and priest (7:6). Ezra was well-favored. Know why (7:10)?
The prophets Haggai and Zechariah reminded the Israelites in Jerusalem that the real reason the Lord's work went unfinished was because their first interest was in building their own homes. These anointed men boldly preached the Word of God and inspired the people to rebuild the Temple: And the elders of the Jews builded, and they prospered through the prophesying of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah . . . according to the Commandment of the God of Israel (Ezra 6:14).

Nothing is recorded about the Jews in Jerusalem between the time of Haggai and Zechariah's ministry and the coming of Ezra from Persia about 60 years later. Zerubbabel, Haggai, and Zechariah had all died leaving the next generation to grow up without spiritual leadership.

Ezra was born during the Babylonian captivity. His geneaology went back many generations to Aaron, Israel's first high priest (7:1-5; I Chr. 6:3-15). The key to Ezra's great effectiveness in accomplishing the will of God is clear: For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek (study) the Law of the LORD, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes (laws) and judgments (what God declares is right and wrong) (Ezra 7:10). Note carefully the threefold key to Ezra's great success: Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the Law of the LORD. The word prepared implies a steadfast effort to know all of the Word of God. The second qualification for the Lord's blessings upon his life was that Ezra committed himself to do it (obey the Law). Third, he planned to teach its statutes and judgments.

Ezra was committed to seeking, doing, and teaching the Word of God. This should be a reminder that, if we want God to bless our lives, we too must set our hearts upon the whole counsel of God. Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench (put out, extinguish) all the fiery darts (arrows, shots) of the wicked. Take . . . the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God (Eph. 6:16-17). Ezra is an example of how God will use anyone who will take His Word seriously, rightly dividing the Word of Truth (II Tim. 2:15).

Thought for Today:

My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand (John 10:27-28).
Christ Revealed:

Through the Feast of Unleavened (yeast-free) Bread (Ezra 6:22). Jesus is the Bread of Life (John 6:35), and He was without sin (Heb. 4:15). Leaven is symbolic of sin.
Word Studies:

6:1 house of the rolls =building where records were kept on scrolls; 6:4 king's house =royal treasury; 6:15 Adar compares with Feb/Mar; 7:21 the river =Euphrates.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by a Family that loves Jesus • Staff: Barbara Bivens • Government Officials: Rep. Roscoe Bartlett (MD) and Rep. Solomon Ortiz (TX) • Country: Malaysia (22.7 million) in Southeast Asia • Major languages: Malay and English • All Christian witness to Muslims is illegal • 58% Muslim; 23% Buddhist/Taoist/Chinese; 8% Christian; 6% Hindu; 5% Sikh/Animist/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Pray that your life will be a good testimony to others, even when faced with opposition (I Pet. 2:12).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 5

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:31

[Judy Harder]

Read Ezra 8 -- 9

Highlights:

Ezra documented the journey. The priests were entrusted with the treasure (Ezra 8:24-30,33-34). Discover the Source of strength to stand against sin (9:6-14).
Ezra knew the Scriptures and decided to be responsible for leading perhaps five thousand men, women, and children on the treacherous, possibly 800-mile journey from Babylon to Jerusalem. Added to this was the responsibility for priceless treasures of silver . . . gold, and the vessels . . . of the House of our God, which the king . . . had offered (Ezra 8:25). Ezra was also aware of the danger of bandits who could murder and plunder. The people would face physical and emotional hardships as well.

It would have been easier to remain in Babylon and just pray for the people in Jerusalem. But Ezra decided to do what he could. Furthermore, Ezra did not ask the king for a protective military guard; rather it is recorded that Ezra proclaimed a fast there . . . that we might afflict (humble) ourselves before our God, to seek of Him a right way. . . . I was ashamed to require of the king a band of soldiers . . . to help us against the enemy . . . because we had spoken unto the king, saying, The hand of our God is upon all them for good that seek Him (8:21-22).

Ezra and all his followers arrived safely in Jerusalem about four months after leaving Babylon (7:8-9; 8:31). However, Ezra was grief stricken upon hearing about the low moral and spiritual state of affairs in Jerusalem since the Temple had been rebuilt. Ezra was told: The people of Israel, and the priests, and the Levites, have not separated themselves from the people of the lands, doing according to their abominations (detestable practices) (9:1). Again, he did not say: "It's not my problem, so I'll leave it up to someone else." Instead, he became involved and every one that trembled at the words of the God of Israel assembled before him (9:4). At the evening sacrifice, he fell on his knees and spread out his hands to the Lord, and prayed: O my God, I am ashamed . . . for our iniquities . . . . for we have forsaken Thy Commandments (9:6,10).

When the Word of God is neglected, we too need to be as concerned as Ezra. Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how . . . by works was faith made perfect (James 2:21-22).

Thought for Today:

Jesus said: Ye shall be hated of all men for My Name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved (Matt. 10:22).
Christ Portrayed:

By Ezra, who mourned over the sins of the people of Jerusalem (Ezra 9:5). Twice it is recorded that, when Jesus looked upon Jerusalem, He also mourned for the people (Luke 13:34; 19:41).
Word Studies:

8:29 chambers =storerooms; 9:3 mantle =robe; 9:7 confusion of face =shame, confessing to following God but living like the world, Come out from among them, and be ye separate (II Cor. 6:17); 9:8 a nail in His Holy Place = secure hold on the promised land; 9:12 wealth =well-being.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Lt. Col. Walter W. Swanson • Bible Pathway Printer: Ambrose Printing Staff, Nashville TN • Government Official: Gov. Linda Lingle (HI) • Country: Maldives (300,000) 400 miles southwest of Sri Lanka • Major languages: Divehi and English • Christian witnessing is banned • 99.9% Muslim; .1% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Wives, pray for a quiet, loving spirit to win your husband to Christ (I Pet. 3:1-2).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 6

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:31

 

[Judy Harder]

 June 5, 2010 

Read Ezra 10

Highlights:

Well, we've been told our sins will find us out; they surely did here (Ezra 10:1-2). The sin was marriage of holy seed (Israelites) with the idol-worshiping Canaanite. Cleansing began (10:3-5). Transgressors were warned (10:7-8). Look how long it took (10:16-17). Note Ezra's infamous list after he finally cleaned house (10:18-44).
The Israelites had married Canaanites. Consequently, many were worshiping their idols. The Law of God, had warned: Neither shalt thou make marriages with them. . . . For they will turn away thy son from following Me . . . so will the anger of the LORD . . . destroy thee (Deut. 7:3-4). As the Israelites listened to Ezra proclaim the Word of God, they were convicted of their sins. Shechaniah, spokesman for the offenders, said to Ezra: We have trespassed against (been unfaithful to) our God, and have taken strange wives. . . . therefore let us make a covenant (agreement) with our God to put away all the (idol worshiping) wives (Ezra 10:2-3).

One by one, each man who had married a Canaanite had to present himself with his wife and children before a court of the elders of every city, and the judges thereof (10:14) to determine if they were involved in idol worship or were worshipers of the true God of Israel. If the only consideration had been the excommunication of all Canaanite wives, it would have been a simple, immediate decision. But, something more than simple separation was being considered in their courts. There was an examination of each family to determine if the Canaanite wives had forsaken their idols and converted to the One True God of Israel. If these men had led their wives to reject their idols and worship the One True God, their wives would have become Israelites and would not have been called strange wives. This precedent had been set by Joshua when he welcomed and protected Rahab, the harlot of Jericho, who had rejected her idols and sinful life to place her trust in the One True God of Israel. Much later, Ruth, a Moabitess, joined with Naomi, confessing: Thy God will be my God (Ruth 1:16). Ruth rejected her people's idols and became an Israelite. In the providence of God, both she and Rahab became a part of the genealogy of Jesus.

We are prone to underestimate the heartbreak and suffering that results from disobedience to the Word of God. The price of sin is much greater than anyone suspects! He that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption (is doomed to destruction); but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting (Gal. 6:.

Thought for Today:

Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? (II Cor. 6:14).
Christ Revealed:

Through the ram (male sheep) offered for the offenses of the sons of the priests (Ezra 10:19). Christ offered Himself up for the sins and offenses of all mankind. He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them (Heb. 7:25).
Word Studies:

10:1 wept very sore =wept bitterly; 10:2 strange =foreign; 10:8 substance =property; 10:13 without =outside in the rain; 10:15 were employed about =were opposed to; 10:19 gave their hands =promised, vowed.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Country: Mali (10 million) in West Africa • Major languages: French and Bambara • Religious freedom despite Muslim majority • 81% Muslim; 17% animism and spirit worship; 2% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Husbands, give honor to your wives, or else your prayers will be obstructed (I Pet. 3:7).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 7

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:31

[Judy Harder]

Read Nehemiah 1 -- 3

Highlights:

Nehemiah sat weeping about the decay of Jerusalem (Neh. 1:1-4). God recognized each person that went up to rebuild the city (2:1-8). The enemy grieved (2:9-10,19). The Altar was set up; the foundation was laid (3:1-13).
When Nehemiah's relative Hanani arrived in Persia from Jerusalem, he told Nehemiah of the pitiful conditions that existed there. Nehemiah said: When I heard these words . . . I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven. . . . both I and my father's house have sinned. . . . and have not kept the Commandments (Neh. 1:4,6-7). Over a period of about four months, he continued to pray.

When King Artaxerxes asked why he was so sad, Nehemiah told him that it was because the city, the place of my fathers' sepulchers (tombs), lieth waste (2:1-3). The king graciously responded by appointing him governor over Judah and commissioned him to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. The king even provided some of the materials (2:6-8).

Three basic characteristics made Nehemiah's efforts a success. First, his desire to do the will of God (1:4-11). This led him to leave the luxury and security of living in the king's palace in Persia and to endure the hardships in Jerusalem in order to restore the city of God.

Second, he not only fasted and prayed, but he confessed: We. . . . have not kept the Commandments (1:4-11). He recognized that obedience to the Word of God is essential to answered prayer.

Third, he was determined to persuade his people to join him in rebuilding the walls, regardless of opposition. Sanballat and his crowd expressed their hostility to Nehemiah: They laughed us to scorn, and despised us (2:19). Their ridicule then turned to slander: Will ye rebel against the king? (2:19). In addition, Judah's nobles put not their necks to the work of their lord (supervisor) (3:5).

Nehemiah refused to become discouraged and give up. Accomplishing the will of God is dependent upon remembering that He is Sovereign over the affairs of our lives. Be content with such things as ye have: for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me (Heb. 13:5-6).

Thought for Today:

Be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord (I Cor. 15:58).
Christ Revealed:

Through Nehemiah's prayer for his people (Neh. 1:4-11). Christ also prayed for His own throughout the ages, which includes us today (John 17:20).
Word Studies:

1:5 terrible =awesome, greatly to be feared; 2:2 countenance =race; 2:7 convey me over =allow me to pass; 2:20 no portion =no part or property; 3:19 turning =corner; 3:23 over against =in front of, opposite of; 3:25 lieth out =extends from.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Marsha Blackburn (TN), Rep. Allen Boyd, Jr. (FL), and Rep. Eric Cantor (VA) • Country: Malta (388,000) about 60 miles south of Sicily • Major languages: Maltese and English • Religious freedom • 97% Christian; 1.7% non-Religious/other; 1% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for unity of spirit with other believers (I Pet. 3:.
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 8

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 1:7

[Judy Harder]

Read Nehemiah 4 -- 6

Highlights:

Three lessons: 1) Expect attacks designed to keep us from building walls of protection against the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life (I John 2:15-17); 2) A righteous leader defends the oppressed (Neh. 5); and 3) Stay alert and stand firm against the lies, threats, and schemes of the enemy. It took 52 days but they won (chap. 6)!
Nehemiah determined to rebuild the walls around Jerusalem, even though there was fierce opposition. He armed workers with their swords, their spears, and their bows (Neh. 4:13). He also said: Be not ye afraid of them: remember the Lord, which is great and terrible (to be reverenced). . . . our God shall fight for us. So we laboured in the work: and half of them held the spears from the rising of the morning till the stars appeared (4:14,20-21; compare Num. 14:9; Ex. 14:13-14). Working about 12 hours a day left little time for anything else. The Israelites' faith had been strengthened through the reading of the Word of God.

Sanballat again attempted to stop their work, saying: Come, let us meet together in some one of the villages in the plain of Ono (Neh. 6:2), about 28 miles northwest of Jerusalem. Nehemiah replied: I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you? (6:3).

After Sanballat made five attempts to meet with Nehemiah, he accused him of rebelling against the king of Persia (6:5-7). When this failed, Sanballat hired a prophet to foretell Nehemiah's death.

Eleven times it is recorded that Nehemiah prayed (1:4-11; 2:4; 4:4-5,9; 5:19; 6:9,14; 13:14,22,29,31). He encouraged his workers, saying: The God of heaven . . . will prosper us. . . . for the people had a mind to work. . . . So the wall was finished . . . in fifty and two days (2:20; 4:6; 6:15).

Once we recognize that the battle is the LORD'S (I Sam. 17:47), and God is the One who allows the opposition, we will not panic. Instead, we will seek to learn what the Lord expects of us in order to qualify to have our prayers answered. People of faith, though a minority, will always find a way to accomplish the will of God. In serving the Lord, one great temptation is that many will find excuses to wait for a more convenient time rather than to put the Lord first and do their best with what they have. Jesus said: I must work the works of Him that sent Me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work (John 9:4).

Thought for Today:

With God all things are possible. . . . And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for My Name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life (Matt. 19:26,29).
Christ Portrayed:

By Nehemiah and other Jews who had bought back (redeemed) some Jews who had been sold to the heathen as slaves while in Persia (Neh. 5:. We, which He hath purchased with His own blood (Acts 20:28), were redeemed when we accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior.
Word Studies:

4:7 breaches =broken places; 4:10 strength of the bearers of burdens is decayed =strength of the workmen is failing; 4:20 resort ye thither =assemble there; 5:3 dearth =famine; 5:7 usury =interest; 5:10 exact of them =require; 6:8 feignest =made up the story.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Iva Jo Swinsburg • Government Officials: Rep. Ben Ray Luján (NM) and Rep. Mike Pence (IN) • Country: Mauritania (2.6 million) in western Africa • Major language: Hasaniya Arabic • Islamic state with no mission work allowed • 99+% Muslim (predominantly Sunni); .2% Christian (predominantly foreigners) • Prayer Suggestion: Pray that you will sanctify the Lord God in your heart (I Pet. 3:15).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 9

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 1:7

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Nehemiah 7 -- 8

Highlights:

Nehemiah's ministry in Jerusalem was finished (Neh. 7:1-2). The ever-important genealogy registry was consulted to determine who were genuine children of Israel (7:6-66). Ezra reads the Law (8:1-8). The joy of the Lord is your strength (8:10). Why (8:12)? Surprise! Through their study, they discovered a forgotten Law, the Feast of Booths (Tabernacles), and they fulfilled it (8:14-18). P.T.L.
The ultimate purpose of God for His people was more than the restoration of His Temple and the walls of Jerusalem. These man-made structures were powerless to protect the Israelites from their enemies unless the people knew and obeyed the Word of God. The Hebrew language in which the Book of the Law (Neh. 8:3) was written was no longer the common language of the people. During their captivity, they spoke Aramaic, which was the international trade language used by the Aramaeans, Persians, and Babylonians at that time.

After the wall was completed under Nehemiah's supervision, thousands of Jews assembled in Jerusalem day after day from sunrise until noon to hear Ezra and the Levites read and explain the Book of the Law. This resulted in a renewal of the Covenant relationship of the Israelites with God and the restoration of scriptural worship.

A revival took place, for all the people wept, when they heard the words of the Law (8:9).

The most pressing need today is for Christians to become seriously concerned about reading all of the Word of God because it is a discerner (judge, critic) of the thoughts and intents of the heart (Heb. 4:12). God speaks to us through His Word and, as we read it, our various acts of disobedience, whether by ignorance, omission or commission, are brought to mind. This will lead to our conviction, confession, and cleansing. We will then become doers of the Word, and not hearers only (James 1:22).

Furthermore, the guilt which results from sins we have committed should no longer remain after we have confessed and repented. We dare not dig up past confessed and forgiven sins of our own or of others; instead, we should rejoice in the merciful, forgiving love of God through Christ our Savior. In our Lord's parable, the unforgiving servant was delivered to the tormentor. So likewise shall My Heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses (Matt. 18:35).

Thought for Today:

Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy (Matt. 5:7).
Christ Revealed:

Through the names required to be registered for priestly service (Neh. 7:64). Christ, our Great High Priest (Heb. 3:1), will soon return wearing His Name, King of Kings, and Lord of Lords (Rev. 19:16).
Word Studies:

7:2 feared =had reverential, heartfelt submission to; 7:3 stand by =stand on guard; watches =guards; 7:61 seed =genealogical descent; 7:65 Urim and Thummim =two objects kept in the high priest's breastplate and used to tell the Lord's will (Ex. 28:30); 8:14 booths =temporary shelters.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Rick Hash • Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Reverend Michael Hall • Government Officials: Rep. Kenneth Calvert (CA) and Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (AZ) • Country: Mauritius (1 million) 500 miles east of Madagascar • Major languages: English and Creole • Limited religious freedom • 50% Hindu; 27% Roman Catholic; 17% Muslim; 5% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Rejoice and consider yourself blessed when you suffer for the Name of Christ (I Pet. 4:14).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 10

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 1:7

[Judy Harder]

Read Nehemiah 9 -- 10

Highlights:

What a wonderful worship service! Before the month was over the earlier reading of the Word of God led the people to confession of their sins, revival, and worship (Neh. 9). They renewed their Covenant with God to follow His Word. Notice who signed it (9:38-10:39).
The completion of the wall provided protection from the surrounding enemies and provided peace of mind to hear what God had to say. It was symbolic of our necessity to have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. . . . See then that ye walk circumspectly (watchful of various dangers, hidden or visible). . . . understanding . . . the will of the Lord (Eph. 5:11,15,17). Ezra stands out as a godly man who led the people to "understand the will of the Lord." Ezra and other Levites read in the Book of the Law of God distinctly, and gave the sense (meaning), and caused them to understand the reading as read from the Law (Neh. 8:. The importance of teaching the Word of God was of such grave consequences that it is mentioned seven times in one chapter (8:2,3,7,8,9,12,13). This points out how essential it is to read all the Bible from Genesis to Revelation.

On the 24th day of Tishri (September/October), the children of Israel were assembled with fasting (Neh. 9:1). There was a movement of the Holy Spirit following the reading of the Scriptures. They stood up in their place, and read in the Book of the Law of the LORD their God one fourth part of the day; and another fourth part they confessed, and worshiped the LORD their God (9:2-3). The Levites were led to say to the people: Stand up and bless the LORD your God for ever and ever: and blessed be Thy glorious Name, which is exalted above all blessing and praise (9:5).

The priests revealed how God, in manifold (great) mercies, had provided His good Spirit to instruct them . . . they lacked nothing (9:19-21). It is the same Holy Spirit who still guides believers, as Jesus promised: When He is come, He will reprove (convict) the world of sin. . . . when He, the Spirit of Truth, is come, He will guide you into all Truth (John 16:8,13). The Holy Spirit also seeks to guide all Christians into the occupation or position God has chosen for us to most effectively serve Him and to prepare us for our eternal inheritance. The Holy Spirit alone can enlighten our minds, impart conviction of sin, and empower us to live a sanctified (holy) life (I Cor. 2:16; 6:11).

For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father . . . That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man (Eph. 3:14,16).

Thought for Today:

Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into His rest, any of you should seem to come short of it (Heb. 4:1).
Christ Revealed:

As the Creator of heaven and earth (Neh. 9:6). All things were created by Him, and for Him (Col. 1:16).
Word Studies:

9:18 wrought great provocations =committed great blasphemy; 9:22 didst divide them into corners =allotted and set boundaries; 9:25 fat =rich; 9:29 withdrew the shoulder =turned away rebelliously; hardened their neck =were stubborn, obstinate; 10:1 Tirshatha =governor; 10:28 Nethinims =temple attendants or servants; 10:31 leave =forego the 7th year's crop.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Assistant to the Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Terry Hall • Government Official: Rep. Don Young (AK) • Country: Mexico (99.7 million) in North America • Major language: Spanish • Religious freedom • 89% Catholic; 6% Protestant; 3.5% None; 1.5% Other (Orthodox, Muslim, Jewish, Baha'i) • Prayer Suggestion: Humble yourself before the Lord (I Pet. 5:5-6).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 11

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 1:7

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Nehemiah 11 -- 12

Highlights:

The Holy City, Jerusalem, the political capital of the kingdom, the city of David, the center of worship, was nearly empty. Only the leaders live there (Neh. 11:1). Lots were cast to repopulate the city. See the list of "who's who" in Jerusalem (chap. 11), and the returning priests and Levites (chap. 12).
Ordinary people, although not skilled in building walls, had willingly gone to work under Nehemiah's leadership and done the best they could to rebuild the walls around Jerusalem.

Only a minority of the people who left Persia to rebuild Jerusalem actually lived inside the city's walls. Most of the Jews lived in suburbs where they could grow crops, pasture their animals, and make a living more easily. Because of this, there were not enough people living in Jerusalem to maintain and protect it. And the rulers of the people dwelt at Jerusalem: the rest of the people also cast lots, to bring one of ten to dwell in Jerusalem the holy city (Neh. 11:1).

The Israelites could now assemble within the rebuilt walls of Jerusalem and worship without fear of their enemies. At the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem they sought the Levites out of all their places, to bring them to Jerusalem, to keep (observe) the dedication with gladness, both with thanksgivings, and with singing. . . . Also that day they offered great sacrifices, and rejoiced: for God had made them rejoice with great joy. . . the joy of Jerusalem was heard even afar off (12:27,43).

The Israelites' worship demonstrated a heartfelt commitment to the Lord in their renewed relationship to Him. Though all true Christians love the Lord, not all are willing to give up personal interests and financial security to do what is needed to accomplish His purposes.

It is no less important for followers of Christ to consider "the walls" which may need to be rebuilt in their own lives where worldly interests have broken through and devastated their zeal for the Lord.

In our Christian walk, we need to be on guard against anything, including good, wholesome activities, which may cause us to divert either our time or our money from their usefulness to God and from becoming treasures in heaven. . . . For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also (Matt. 6:20-21).

We all will want to hear our Lord say what the earthly master said in the parable of the talents: Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter . . . into the joy of thy lord (Matt. 25:21).

Thought for Today:

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? . . . in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us (Rom. 8:35,37).
Christ Portrayed:

By the priests and Levites who purified (sanctified) themselves and the people (Neh. 12:30). Christ our High Priest, through His perfect sacrifice, purified His believers by His Word. Now ye are clean through the Word which I have spoken unto you (John 15:3; 17:17).
Word Studies:

11:16 outward business =external business of the Temple; 11:24 was at the king's hand =was advisor, administrator of the king; 12:44 that waited =who officiated, ministered, kept the watches.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Bonnie Wilhite • Staff: Gina Lesnefsky • Government Officials: Gov. Brad Henry (OK) and Rep. Lynn Jenkins (KS) • Country: Moldova (4.3 million) southeastern Europe • Major languages: Rumanian and Russian • Limited religious freedom • 66% Russian/Romanian Orthodox; 2.5% Catholic (Greek and Roman); 1.7% Protestant (mainly Baptist); 1.5% Jewish; .2% Muslim; 28.1% Agnostic/Atheist/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Let the Lord have all your worries and cares; He is always thinking about you and things that concern you (I Pet. 5:7).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 12

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 1:7