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Nehemiah 8

Good Morning “Not Just Building a Wall.”  Today we are in Nehemiah 8.

Nehemiah was never just a Cupbearer.  He was also never just a Wallbuilder but he did lead the people to build a wall.  Now the wall is done.  Surely Nehemiah heads back to his cup bearing right?  Wrong.  Building the wall was never Gods only purpose for him.  

He was sent to minister to the people.  To lead them back into proper worship and love of God and love of others.  Building the wall met a necessary physical need, but it was really a means to facilitate restoration with God - and unity within Judah.  Much like the way we do physical work or provide for a need on a mission trip.  The purpose is never just the need but loving the people and directing them to, or fueling their growth in Jesus.

The wall served to ready the people to restoration, and they’re ready.  We see that proven as it’s the people who ask for the Law to be read (Verse 1).  

Notice the timing.  God is amazing - perfect really!  It’s the 7th year, the 7th month.  The completion of the wall “coincidentally” falls right into the period of feasts and the time in which God had commanded through Moses - that The Law be read publicly (Deuteronomy 31:10-12).

Ezra the teacher is back and he will do the teaching!  He never really went anywhere, we just focused on Nehemiahs role for a bit.  It’s just a little picture of how God uses each in different roles.  He’s uniquely gifted each of us in Jesus, with gifts to serve within the body (1 Corinthians 12:4-10, Ephesians 4:12-13).

The Law is read and the nation that once more had turned away from The Word of The Lord, now celebrates it!  What a change!  How did it happen?  All God, moving through people as they make themselves available to Him.    That’s our chief assignment (Romans 12:1-2).

In observance of the Feast of Tabernacles they gather materials and build temporary houses as instructed in The Law.  The purpose?  Remember.  Remember the years Israel wandered in the desert and WORSHIP The One True God who brought them out of captivity.  Their worship in that way is further evidence of their hearts condition.  

How’s our worship?  Does the manner in which we celebrate The Word of The Lord, and worship - speak to OUR hearts condition?  Of course it does…

So… what do our actions, or lack there of reveal?

Love you all!  Dig in!