[Nehemiah] Now Is The TimeSample

Standing on God’s Promises

God keeps his promises. Nehemiah knew that firsthand and he was convinced of it. Just as God had promised to punish the people for disobedience [and God followed through by allowing them to be taken captive], Nehemiah knew that godly repentance and obedience would bring the people once again into right standing with God. So, while in the presence of God, Nehemiah reminds God of his promise to bring restoration. The road to restoration is paved with the bricks of confession and repentance of sin. And Nehemiah was willing to start bricklaying.

Quite often we barter with God, trading what we consider righteous deeds in exchange for actually doing what God’s Word says we should do. When we do that, or willfully withhold our obedience—and consequently our obeisance—God considers it sin. However, the corollary is true. When we repent and obey God’s laws, God is faithful to his promise to restore us.

Reflect

Think about what would happen if people all over the city would be obedient to God's Word. Think about what would happen if Christians in your city would kneel before God and remind God of his promises. Nehemiah acted like a first responder in this crisis. Are there beginning steps you can take?

Respond

Search the Scriptures for God’s promises that address the troubles that plague your city. Find ways to show people in your community how positive changes in their behavior will help change the state of the city.

Pray

Lord, I stand on your promises. They are precious gems to me. You are ever faithful and so I depend on you alone. I am grateful that you never go back on your Word.