In Nehemiah 8:1-12 this week, during my daily Bible reading, I was both challenged and encouraged: 

“All of the people gathered as one.” [Nehemiah 8:1] The people hadn’t worshipped together for a great while. They longed to hear the Scriptures. 

“Ezra blessed Yahweh the great God, and all the people answered, “Amen! Amen!” and “…bowed down and worshiped Yahweh...” [Nehemiah 8:6]

They “were attentive” from “dawn until noon…” [Nehemiah 8:7-8]

They absorbed the teaching about all they had heard; “For all the people wept…” [Nehemiah 8:9] which later turned to joy: “All of the people went to eat, to drink… and to have great joy because they understood the words that had been made known to them.” [Nehemiah 8:12]

As I reflect on this passage about the gathering of the returned exiles, some questions come to mind (maybe these are questions you might ponder as well): 

• Do I have a similar hunger for the Word as I spend time there daily, or am I merely checking a box?

• Am I attentive to the many opportunities I have today (Bibles galore, Scripture software, excellent commentaries, teaching and preaching) so that I might grow in my love for God and my understanding of His Word?

• Do the passages I read move me to tears of grief over my sin… or to joy about what Jesus has done for me and in me?

But as I reflect on these, I look back at the man I was twenty-five years ago, five years ago, or even one year ago, and tears of joy come!  I am no longer that man… little steps, big steps, small victories, lost battles, and battles won… Jesus, by his Spirit, is working in me, making me the man he intends for me to become.  Amazing!

Lord, as we ponder, let us determine to approach our personal Bible study as well as our LTCC gatherings with eagerness.  Help us to crave your Word and see your work in our midst. Let us approach your throne with reverence and awe as we seek the face of our God. And let us know your pleasure in us, your sons and daughters as we dwell together in your presence… for your glory!

Amen.