Bible Chapter: Nehemiah 13

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    The book ends with a flurry of activity in this last chapter.  As the Law of the Lord was read to them they realized that the people had sinned in letting heathen people influence them away from God.  They were told it was time to separate themselves from the foreigners whose evil impact caused the nation to sin.  Their moral and spiritual commitment to God had failed.  They were desecrating the Sabbath. The leaders were active to push out the evil and get the people to obey God.
    The people started paying their tithes to the Lord’s house.  This was God’s command to them and provided for God’s work.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    Nehemiah rebuked the people for their sins.  He took some drastic steps to get the point across that they must quit compromising spiritually.  He was passionate about leading the people to obey God.
    Passionate about obedience and service to God -- this is necessary.  This is a necessary challenge to all who claim to be followers of Jesus. There are millions and millions of people who say they are Christians, and yet there is no evidence in their lives that they really are followers of the teachings of Jesus.  We all need a passion to serve and follow the Lord.

3.  How can I help someone?
    See Who Jesus is and what it means to be His follower.  Nehemiah used some powerful tactics to get the attention of the people.  I want to help people get their spiritual attention, to get their spiritual eyes and ears open, so they know what God expects and receive the blessings of obedience.