The Christian life has become domesticated and watered down. We need to recover our adventurous faith. This passage gives us the story of the revival of a nation. It was exposure to God’s Word that revived the people.

1 – God’s Word valued (vs. 1-8)

Notice how they approached God’s Word.

• United – It was with one accord. There was a unity in their appetite.
• Intentional – They knew why they were assembling. They wanted to hear God’s Word.
• Attentive – It was from daybreak until noon! The Word was read from for hours and day after day.
• Respectful – They had built a platform so that all could see. They all stood up.
• Yielded – They shout “Amen” and lie face down.
• Teachable – They had small groups and taught the meaning of God’s Word. They made God’s Word clear.

2 – God’s Word applied (vs. 9-12)

Notice their response to God’s Word. This is what happens from the application of God’s Word in our lives.

• Conviction – It convicted them of their sin. This happens when we realise we are not where God wants us to be. The people had to actually be calmed down!
• Generosity – They had a party! It was a day to rejoice. The adventure was beginning again.
• Assurance – The joy of the Lord is your strength.

3 – God’s Word shared (vs. 13-18)

Three things are an outcome from sharing God’s Word.

• Gratitude for the past – The booths were a reminder of what God had done in the past.
• Witness in the present – It was a declaration to their neighbours.
• Hope for the future – They were reminding themselves that they were a pilgrim people. They were looking for a new home in Heaven.

Do you have an appetite or has it lost its edge? We need to be people of the Book so that we can be people of the God of the Book.

Categories: Nehemiah