August 15

Nehemiah 9:22-10:39, 1 Corinthians 9:19-10:13, Psalm 34:1-10, Proverbs 21:13 

Pray: The Psalmist's prayers are strong in speaking to the reality of disappointments and challenges in our lives when we are called to praise God, to give thanks, no matter what we are going through. What an honest look at our own lives will do is to create within us a deep spirit of gratitude for His “unfailing love”. Perhaps we would start our day in a positive, wonderful way if we too began by expressing to God that we are thankful, and hopeful even in the midst of our challenges. God is in control.

Read: Today we read how the people of God yielded themselves to following God’s directions for worship, daily living and for treatment of other nations. How wonderful to see that God’s Word does give prescriptions for every area of our lives. Moreover, Nehemiah declared that the building of the wall gives security from the enemies beyond the wall but it is spiritual disciplines like tithing which help us tame the enemy within us as our greed and pride can undo us.

Edify: Our reading from the Psalms is the powerful passage which says, “…taste and see that the Lord is good.” Notice the words to follow that we take our refuge in Him. Often we run towards alcohol, drugs, sex and other things to ease our pain. Some run towards work, exercise, and pseudo relationships, which are not bad things, but they will not ultimately satisfy.  

Practice: Paul was beaten, shipwrecked, and imprisoned for his love for Christ and passion to help others know the saving grace of Jesus. This is why these words are so powerful in I Corinthians, “ When I am with those who are weak, I share their weakness, for I want to bring the weak to Christ. Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some. I do everything to spread the Good News and share in its blessings”. Paul’s words challenge you and me to look this question square in the eyes, “What am I doing today to help someone take one step closer to Christ?” Seriously, who am I going to pray for right now who is unchurched and far from God? Who will I take a day and fast for this week that she or he might come to faith in Christ? Who will I invite to join me in worship this week?