Daily Bible Reading – March 2020 God’s Life-Giving Word Of PrayerMuestra
March 30
Introduction
The books of Nehemiah and Ezra were originally one book. The book of Nehemiah was written to continue the history of the Israelites after their return to Jerusalem from Babylonia, the beginning of which is recorded in the Book of Ezra (see Ezra 8:1-36). Nehemiah, a Jew, was a personal servant of King Artaxerxes of Persia and later appointed governor of Judah (Nehemiah 1:11; 10:1). In today’s reading, the people have heard Ezra read the Law (see Nehemiah 8:1-12), and they respond with worship, prayer, and confession. The prayer in this passage is a summary of God’s faithfulness, including creation, the promise to Abraham, the exodus from Egypt, the 40 years in the desert, and the conquest of Canaan.
Today’s Scripture: Nehemiah 9:17b
You are a God who forgives; you are gracious and loving, slow to be angry.
Today’s Reading
Nehemiah 9:1-25
Reflect
When the people offered this prayer of confession, they wore sackcloth. Sackcloth was a rough, coarse fabric that was often worn in times of trouble or sorrow. They also threw dirt or ashes on their heads to express sorrow and grief. In what ways have you expressed sorrow and grief? In this prayer of confession, what is cited as examples of God’s mercy?
Pray
Gracious God, you alone are the Lord, Creator of the heavens and all the stars. Because of your great mercy, you never abandoned your people, and you never abandon me. I am grateful for your blessings of forgiveness, healing, and renewal. Amen.
Prayer Concern
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Tomorrow’s Reading
Nehemiah 9:26-38: The people continue their prayer of confession.
Escritura
Acerca de este Plan
Daily Bible Reading is designed to facilitate consistent interaction with Scripture. It includes background information on each day’s Scripture passage and key verse for meditation, reflection questions to help you dive deeper into Scripture, a prayer and prayer concern to help you connect to God and be of spiritual support to others. Journey with us this month as we explore the theme “God’s Life-Giving Word of Prayer.”
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