Nehemiah: Spiritual Renewal Week 5

Nehemiah 9321039 God's covenant... It canʼt be broken

After reading Godʼs word the people are brought into confession in chapter 9. Now in chapter 10 we see the people engage in true repentance, which is a turning from their sinful ways in order to position themselves to receive Godʼs grace and goodness. They reposition or consecrate their lives in three distinct ways: 1. with their sexual/romantic relationships (v30), 2. with their time (v31), and 3. with their finances (v39). It seems to be a commentary on human nature, as these three things are arguably the primary idols of our time and culture today. Fortunately for those in Christ, we are given power to resist the idols of our day, and position our lives to receive the grace and goodness of God.

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• Read Nehemiah chapter 9321039
• What are your thoughts on how obedience can position you to receive Godʼs grace and goodness?
• Are you challenged by any of the commitments to obedience made by the Isrealites? Or is God highlighting anything to you personally? Pray with one another.

Pray for insight into the desires of our hearts and how we position them towards God and the world around us.

Service

Service is often not seen as a habit of grace or a spiritual disciple, but rather just a requirement of being a part of a group. Like any family or team you need to participate to really be a part of it.

However, the opportunity, desire and capacity to serve is a gift from God designed to shape us in ways that bring fulfilment and joy in God himself.

Share with one another

• What is your experience of serving, particularly in the church? Has it brought joyful transformation or heartbreaking disappointment and exhaustion?
• What are the external and internal factors you believe have shaped your experience in serving?

Practice

1. Pray for God to expose the spiritual realities that have shaped your experience of and desire for serving in the church.
2. Commit to one act of service this week. Start with a family member or housemate or close friend. This could be something as simple as making them a cup of coffee or clearing the house for some quiet time, but pray for a way to serve someone you love.