God’s people had been in bondage for over 140 years, they had been living in exile and longing to return to Jerusalem. The Babylonians had captured and destroyed Jerusalem, exporting the people to foreign and distant lands. While Daniel was alive the Persians conquered the Babylonians and had a different policy of dealing with people, they let them return home in order to keep the goodwill of the people. Many Israelites returned and set to work to rebuild much of Jerusalem, particularly the temple but it was nothing in comparison of its former glory. Many Israelites remained where they were because they had families, jobs, like the places they were living. Nehemiah was one such man, he served in the royal court, had a nice job, a good living and was comfortable where he was at – does that sound like anyone you know. One day all of that changes…
I’ve heard from many of you at church about the help of having a regular weekly study. During the time of this last devotion, pray and ask God to show you a new venue for personal worship. Make it your sacred act of worship today to create a new plan for connecting with God daily. A few websites I would suggest as helpful are below, take the time to look at them and see which one would fit best with you and your personality.
Read 1 John 5:16-20, then take the time to pray for a brother or sister who is lost. Ask that God would show you someone you could help find their way back from their sin.
Yesterday John listed the witnesses that give us confidence in our faith, today we see what that confidence looks like in action. As you come to the passage now go first with confidence in prayer to God. Ask God to grant you insight into his word through his Spirit. Read 1 John 5:13-15 and compare your prayer life to that John describes.
