Restart: Stepping Out in Faithናሙና

DEDICATING THE CITY TO GOD When we dedicate something to God, we give it all to him. We hold nothing back. It is given in full and joyful surrender. It is all for God’s pleasure, all for his use, all for his glory. In the case of the city wall, the Levites not only purified the gates and the wall itself, but they also purified themselves and the people. Similarly, when we dedicate our lives to God, we need to step away from anything and everything that would prevent us from being holy. God’s desire is for us to be like him…holy! (1 Peter 1.14-16). If we want to restore our city, we must first ask God to help us walk in holiness. Then, we will become “living stones being used to build a spiritual house” (1 Peter 2.5). What does it say about the nature of the celebration when we’re told in v.27, “Levites from everywhere in Judah were invited to join in the celebration with songs of praise.…”? How would you plan a dedication of your city to God? What elements would be included? What would such a celebration look like? Pray: God, we want to uplift your name among the people. Help us to dedicate ourselves and our city for your glory. Give us the encouragement we need, and remind us that you are always with us.