Month: July 2023

Scripture Neh 5:15 But the former governors who were before me laid burdens on the people, and took from them bread and wine, besides forty shekels of silver. Yes, even their servants bore rule over the people, but I did not do so, because of the fear of God.

Observation: If you look anywhere on this earth you see people taking advantage of other people. Governments oppressing people, taking what little they have, the rich taking from the poor, people cheating others and we feel at times we must do the same to keep up with all of this evil, but that is not what God calls us to do. We are to take care of others, fight oppression, help those that need it and to treat others fairly no matter how we might be treated. If we fear God we will do what He calls us to do and to be generous of all the Lord has given us.

Application: I do cheat whether it’s taking something from work or not giving what I’m supposed or cheating on my taxes. I want to keep whatever I have and all that I have was given to me by my Lord. I need to be more generous and fair with all that I have and that includes my time. I need to look at others as God’s children and my God is a protective Father. I need to see others as God sees them and never cheat anyone, but to give unconditionally.

Prayer: My Lord I’m selfish and I worry all the time about money and how I will pay the bills I have accumulated. Help me be more generous and take this burden from me I beg of you. Show me how to be more generous towards your children and my focus would be on you.

Scripture Neh 4:14 And I looked, and arose and said to the nobles, to the leaders, and to the rest of the people, “Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, great and awesome, and fight for your brethren, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your houses.”

Observation: I’ve been so afraid all of my life of people, situations, pain, failure, you name it and at one time or another I was afraid. What a terrible way to live your life in constant fear and yet there is nothing to be afraid of. When the Bible tells us to fear the Lord it means that is the only thing we should consider. Before we make a decision or sin think of the consequences that God can bring and only that. Even if someone threatens your life, your life is still in the hands of God, because our real life, or eternal life is what we should live this life for. God will direct or paths and protect us and guide us if we make Him first in our lives. There is nothing to fear if you walk in the protection of our Lord.

Application: I may not be as bad as I was about being afraid, but I still am at times. I forget about my God who has protected me all of my life and has guided me through so many things and I fear the things of this world, stupid things that don’t matter. I can accomplish so much more for my Lord if I would stay in constant focus of Him instead of this evil world. I need to draw closer to my Lord each moment of each day and not to be so involved in this temporary place that I live in now. I have a new home that fear will no longer excess and that is what should be on my heart.

Prayer: My Lord, thank you for always watching over me. I thank you for trials in my life, because when I allow them they will strengthen me and allow me to see you more clearly. I thank you for your love, mercy and grace in my life and all that you have placed in it. Help me stay focused on you, give me the courage to live a life that will please you. I’m so tired of letting you down, give me courage to live. I love you my Lord help me show you how much.

Scripture Neh 3:5 Next to them the Tekoites made repairs; but their nobles did not put their shoulders to the work of their Lord.

Observation: Sometimes we feel we’re too good to get dirty and help, that our time is too precious. Everything we have comes from God and that includes our time. We are set apart to do good works and typically good works is just that work. Jesus turned his back on no one, He was always ready to help and do what it takes. One thing that should set us apart from others is our willingness to help no matter what and that the most important thing to us is doing God’s will. No matter what our position is in this world our true position is servant, according to our Lord who came to serve all.

Application: I need to remember this as I set myself apart at times because the way God has blessed me. He has taken care of all of my needs and has blessed me with gifts and talent. May I never forget all that He has given me is for His glory and not my convenience. I’m called to help and be part of the body and to be used by God. It’s time that I become useful.

Prayer: My Lord you know me all the evil and selfishness that is in me and yet you still love me. I don’t understand your love, but I do what to honor you with whatever time I have left here in this world. Help me please see others as you see them and give me the strength to persevere through this live and do what honors you. I love you, your servant, Mark.