There was an excuse that never worked in our family: “But So-and-so did it, too!” My parents weren’t concerned about So-and-so’s behavior; they were concerned about mine, and they wanted me to do the right thing regardless of what others did. This is what God calls us to do: Trust that the Lord is in control and do good no matter how the world pressures us to bend our standards. By trusting Him and standing firm, we can dwell in the land without regret and without fear of God’s retribution. We can be an example of steadfast faith and obedience. When our hearts are right, we are secure in His love, attention, and protection. What a great “place” to dwell.
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Before God and man
Remember the scripture about removing the plank from one’s own eye before trying to help a brother with the speck in his eye? Nehemiah’s prayer reminds me of this. He was begging God for help in restoring this city. Before asking God to do him a favor, he first wanted…
Seek God’s guidance
As we’ve noted on previous days, Nehemiah became aware of the broken down state of Jerusalem and the despair of its inhabitants, and his heart was moved—he cared. His grief over the city and the Jewish people drove him to his knees. He pleaded with the great and terrible (awe-inspiring)…
Hymn day: “Pass Me Not, O Gentle Savior”
HYMN DAY! “Pass Me Not, O Gentle Savior” by Fanny J. Crosby is so tender and humble. Crosby wrote so many wonderful, deeply emotive and applicable hymns. “Whom have I on earth beside Thee?” He is our All in All. Pass me not, O gentle Savior, Hear my humble cry;…

