August 13

Nehemiah 5:14-7:73, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Psalm 33:1-11, Proverbs 21:8-10

Pray: The psalmist today will encourage you to sing. Why not start your time with Him by singing a song? What’s the first song of praise that comes to mind? Perhaps turn on the Christian radio station and sing along. Sing out, unashamed, with joy to the Lord as is fitting for Him (Psalm 33:1).

Read: Psalm 33:10-11 promises that God will frustrate the plans of those who stand against His plans, and that His intentions can never be shaken. Read today in light of that promise.

Edify: Notice the enemies in Nehemiah tried to thwart God’s plans with false accusations and lies. Also, notice how quickly Nehemiah picked up on the lack of truth in the story and exposed the lies. Finally, the people actually responded with greater determination to participate in the Lord’s work once the lies were exposed. The enemy today still uses lies to condemn, frustrate, confuse, and discourage us. However, we are armed with Christ’s work on the cross which cancelled the charges against us and disarmed and shamed the spiritual rulers and authorities that come against us! (Colossians 2:13-15) We, like Nehemiah, have to be aware of God’s intentions and plans in order to expose the lies and continue the work.  

Practice: What has been a source of discouragement for you recently? Expose the lie, so you can disarm the enemy. Remember that the psalmist reminds us that God’s word is trustworthy and true, He does what is just and good, and His unfailing love fills the earth. Shine light on the lie that’s persistent in your heart right now, and fill it with confidence in the sovereignty and unfailing love of God.