DAY 346: JOURNEY THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR – NEHEMIAH 10-13

December 10, 2024

NEHEMIAH 10-13
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DAY 346: JOURNEY THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR

Today we conclude our journey through the book of Nehemiah with the dedication of the rebuilt wall and Nehemiah’s final reforms.

Take a moment and pray, asking for understanding of today’s reading. Read Nehemiah 10-13. Let’s journey!

Today, the Old Testament books of Ezra and Nehemiah are separated, however, they were originally one book: Ezra-Nehemiah and authored by a single, unknown person.  Both books detail the return of the Israelites to Jerusalem after spending years in captivity and living abroad. The Israelites are attempting to rebuild their famed city, but arrive to find it in ruins.  The remnant struggles in their rebuilding.  Ezra and Nehemiah were leaders during this time of rebuilding. 

Nehemiah 10-13: Nehemiah leads by example, being the first to sign a covenant to separate themselves from the ungodly and to be held accountable for their actions.  The names of the other signers are also recorded.  The covenant was a return to the Lord.  The Israelites came together as a nation and worked together for God’s glory.  Their names are remembered.  A great celebration occurred with the dedication of the rebuilt wall around Jerusalem.  The celebration surrounded the city with praise and ended at the rebuilt temple.  Nehemiah left Jerusalem and returned to the king.  The Israelites quickly began falling away from the Lord, returning to their old habits.  Nehemiah returned to Jerusalem, providing reforms and, again, directing the people back to the Lord.  Nehemiah ends with a prayer to the Lord.  (Nehemiah 10:1-9:31)

After concluding today’s reading, take some time and consider the following:  What happened in today’s reading?  What can be learned from what happened?  How can that lesson be related and applied to today?  To yourself?

Godspeace!