::::::In the previous post, I said I would reveal more details going on in our lives. This post isn't exactly what I had in mind. Instead, I am inspired to write down my thoughts about Nehemiah 1. Hopefully next post with be an update of things that have been going on (with pictures!!)::::::
NDE and I are studying Nehemiah independently/together right now. We read some days by ourselves, then discuss or we read together, then discuss. We went through a study on Nehemiah a few years back in our church. NDE has amazed me with all the background knowledge he retained from the study. He has the intellectual mind and I have the analytical mind. Makes for good pair when studying the word....at least I think so! :)
Today I was thinking back to the first chapter on Nehemiah and still blown away by Nehemiah's response to finding out about the damage to Jerusalem and its people people.
"So it was, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned for many days; I was fasting and praying before the God of heaven."
He didn't complain or "see who could fix this problem". He immediately did what he know he could do - PRAY & SEEK GOD in this situation. I see that the Lord did a great work in Nehemiah's heart for him to respond in such passion. I see God had ordained Nehemiah to respond intensely to this situation. I can't help but desire to have that same response. I look up to Nehemiah. He was wealthy man with great political connections and he didn't let things of the world conquer him. He turned to God with intense passion no matter what cost it might be.
Just has Nehemiah did later in his prayer to God, I must humble myself. I confess I am weak in praying passionately, in responding intensely, and always living deeply. I will wait upon you to build this in me. Prayer will give me strength; when I wait on God in prayer, He will renew my strength (Isaiah 40:31). I doubt myself to be able to accomplish any of this Abba Father. Only you can accomplish this with in my heart. :)
Thankful thought:
Thankful thought:
We attended a Valentines banquet put on by our new church.There was a great speaker and we were encouraged by his message of passionate love. We spent most of the night laughing and learning new things about each other. Oh and I didn't have to cook dinner (always a plus for me --- the not-so-good-cook!)
Danielle, I think it's so awesoem that you and hubby are studying Nehemiah together! What a cool way to bond. :) I actually just finished reading it last week, and I loved that part too. I also loved the wisdom demonstrated by his friend, who encouraged him to act and not lose heart. And would that friend have been inpired to act so decicively if Nehemiah hadn't been on his face in horror? Probably not, since he hadn't before that moment.
ReplyDeleteAnd yay for awesome, encouraging speakers and not having to cook! Sounds like God is orchestrating beautiful little details even on the other side of the world so that you can remain encouraged.