Revealing Reading!

Just as there are various things which can be read, reading is done for a variety of reasons. Among the purposes for which people read are:
education, entertainment, relaxation, and the stimulation of the mind.
Reading is a healthy exercise for both the body and the mind. It is also healthy for life both practically and spiritually, provided the proper materials are being read.

During the time of Nehemiah, following the rebuilding and dedication of the wall of Jerusalem, Ezra the priest and scribe ( Nehemiah 8:9) lead in a study of the words of the Law with leaders and heads of the families.
( Nehemiah 8:13ff) There were commands of the Law which had not been observed. And there was a need for a reading to all the people to bring them back into full compliance with the Will of God. Therefore, the nation assembled for the purpose of hearing God’s commands.

We read…
“And they stood up in their place and READ from the Book of the Law of the LORD their God FOR A QUARTER OF THE DAY; for ANOTHER QUARTER OF IT THEY MADE CONFESSION AND WORSHIPED THE LORD THEIR GOD.” ( Nehemiah 9:3 ESV)

For a fourth of the day they listened to the reading of God’s Law. While they listened intently, the reading revealed within themselves that their lives were not completely right with God. And by their RESPONSE it is revealed they had touchable hearts. The reading impacted them in a way that prompted an honest personal RESPONSE. Thus, for another fourth of the day they made confession and worshiped their God; a RESPONSE revealing clearly they had taken the reading personally.

It is true that some things may simply be read for readings sake. That is not to be the case, however, with the reading of God’s Word. His Words are life! They are wisdom we need! They are intended to bring change to our lives! And if we are truly attentive to what we read we will find it hard not to RESPOND.

What does our RESPONSE to the reading of God’s Word reveal about us? Do we walk away as if we had just read someone else’s mail? Or do we move on into the day a changed and better person because we have accepted personally the powerfully truths revealed? May we each continually find the practical freshness of God’s Word for everyday living.

Have a great day EXPOSING THE VALUE OF ACCEPTING GOD’S WORD!
Carl

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