Feb 09 2022

Nevertheless for thy great mercies' sake thou didst not utterly consume them, nor forsake them; for thou art a gracious and merciful God.

In the Old Testament, we read about a man named Nehemiah. He wasn't a prophet or a great leader when God called him to rebuild the wall that had once stood firmly around the city of Jerusalem. He was a simple cupbearer, a servant to the king.

The Israelites, God's chosen people, spent hundreds of years going back and forth between following God and worshipping idols. They would sin and then turn back to God in repentance. This happened repeatedly.

Nehemiah was concerned for Jerusalem and the Jews who were living in an unprotected city. Without massive walls, the city was vulnerable to attacks. Nehemiah was troubled to the point of action. With the blessing of the king, he traveled to Jerusalem and met with Jewish leaders who agreed to support him in rebuilding the wall.

Nehemiah rebuilt the wall, and God's people gave thanks for God's unfailing grace and mercy toward them. They didn't deserve it, and they knew it. God could have forsaken them for their constant disobedience, but He didn't because He loved them.

Often, God calls those whom the world would not choose to do great things for Him. He provides wisdom and ability to people who will serve Him willingly. Nehemiah was willing and obedient.

Every day we can offer ourselves in service to the One who extends His never-ending grace toward us. Only God knows how He can use our lives to affect the lives of others.

Lord, You have always been faithful to your people. Even in my own disobedience, you have never forsaken me. I offer myself to you because I realize that my life isn't my own. You have blessed me with the ability to choose you as the Lord of my life. Help me stay faithful to you. Thank you for showing grace and mercy to me. You are good. In Jesus' name, amen.

Feb 08 2022

Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. :

Every day, more than 6 billion text messages are sent in the United States alone. This form of communication has made it faster and easier to talk with each other than ever before. Unfortunately, this mode of communication also enables us to fire off replies without careful consideration.

This afternoon's verse provides the wisdom we should consider in an age of information explosion. James, who is believed to be Jesus' half-brother, emphasizes that not only should we be slow to speak but also slow to react or become angry. A fast response can lead to a display of character that isn't godly.

When we have conversations, whether by text, email, or social media commentary (as well as in person), we should be quick to listen and slow to speak. Because it's so easy to communicate quickly, it takes extra effort to stop and weigh our words before responding to others.

When we take the time to listen to others, we are demonstrating care and concern for what they are saying. Instead of reacting, we are carefully and deliberately listening to what is being said. This one action can lead to richer conversations, and ultimately more meaningful friendships and better relationships with our family members.

If we are known for listening to others, they will be more likely to share their hearts when they are suffering and turn to us when they are in need of prayer.

Dear God, there are times when I am overwhelmed by the need to communicate with others. I may feel tired, anxious, or frustrated, but I know that I should never be reactive in my responses. Help me become a better listener. Build your character in my life and help me become more aware of the needs of others. In Jesus' name, amen.


Add to Favorites

← View Last Verse View Next Verse →