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May 22 Nehemiah 8:9-12

Just a thought: The people had not heard the Word of God in their lifetime. They realized how far they
had fallen, and it made them weep. But catch Nehemiahs response to their grief: Do not grieve, for
the joy of the LORD is your strength (8:10). Realizing what God is telling us is a cause for celebration.
Understanding and renewed obedience is the best kind of joy. Dont hang your head about the step you
didnt take yesterday. Rejoice that you get to take a new step today!
Prayer: Lord, we celebrate with great joy, because we now understand the words that have been made
known to us.

May 23 Nehemiah 8:13-18
Just a thought: They learned from the Word of God about the Feast of Tabernacles, a festival designed
to help Israel remember what their ancestors went through during their 40 years in the wilderness.
Doesnt sound much fun, sleeping in makeshift houses for a week. But I love what Nehemiah says:
From the days of Joshua son of Nun until that day, the Israelites had not celebrated it like this. And
their joy was very great (8:17). Imagine if you apply this today: Someone needs to serve communion.
Im in! They need a teacher for childrens church. Pick me! The homeless shelter needs a meal for 30
people ready in one hour. Im on it! Everything becomes joyful when your perspective changes.
Prayer: Lord, may I get excited about every day ministry in Your Name.

May 24 Nehemiah 9:1-5
Just a thought: How did you spend your day? The Israelites spent 3 hours reading the Bible and then
another 3 hours in confession and worship. Hopefully this will give some perspective your preacher
goes longer than 30 minutes and you are convinced that you will never get a seat at Cracker Barrel at
this rate.
Prayer: Lord, we stand up and praise you, because you are from everlasting to everlasting!

May 26 Nehemiah 9:6-31
Just a thought: This is a prayer to God. Look at how many times the prayer includes the words you and
they. The You is God. You are the Lord. You give life. You have kept your promise. You sent
miraculous signs and wonders. Do we have to wonder who the they are? They are the people of
Israel. They became arrogant and stiff-necked. They refused to listen. They were disobedient. But in
your great mercy you did not put an end to them or abandon them, for you are a gracious and merciful
God (9:31). Yeah, I sound a lot like a they. I am really grateful for the You who showed me grace
and mercy.
Prayer: I confess my sins to you. I thank you for your great grace and mercy.

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