Bible Study & Devotional 223

written by: Torrie Slaughter

Guiding Scripture: Nehemiah 2:18, ‘And I told them of the hand of my God that had been upon me for good, and also of the words that the king had spoken to me. And they said, “Let us rise up and build.” So they strengthened their hands for the good work. ‘ 

🔴Fortitude

“You’re young and got a lot of energy.” What you may read as a compliment is sarcastic complacency. I’ve heard that statement many times after an accomplishment. It wasn’t congratulatory because it made me fear growing older. I used to think that maybe I should pace myself so I would have some ‘energy’ left for later years. 

But as we grow and learn more about our differences and where courage, grit, and fearlessness come from, we understand that energy isn’t what we exert but how we apply it. I devoted too much effort to others’ feelings about my purpose. I often worried if others would be threatened or believe I was arrogantly showing off my ‘youthfulness.’

And then we read historical passages like Ezra-Nehemiah. Both men played a significant role in the trajectory of the God story.

Nehemiah picks up where Ezra leaves off. Nehemiah faced opposition as he endeavored to complete the Lord’s work. It is incredible how God uses His people to keep pressing forward. Despite opposition, Nehemiah and his supporters finished the wall. 

As you read today’s scriptures, I pray you are encouraged. 

How?

Think about what you contribute to the Gospel narrative.

Are you influencing your sisters and brothers to work for the Lord? 

Because of Jesus, we can get excited about the bigger picture as we do our part. Our strength comes from being under pressure. Isn’t it amazing how God helps us grow in spiritual and mental strength? The fearful nay-sayers and procrastinators will not destroy God’s plan. Ponder, meditate, and pray while you seek God’s guidance for your assignment. When we seek to accomplish kingdom goals, the Holy Spirit fortifies us with significant strength. 

Prayer: Father, we come humbly before you as we seek to do your will. Please help us find those who will stand boldly in Truth. As we rise against the spiritually blind and unbelievers, fortify us with Your power and wisdom. Amen

🔴 The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan

Wednesday, August 11, 2021

Nehemiah 1:1-3:14, 1 Corinthians 7:1-24, Psalm 31:19-24, Proverbs 21:4

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Bible Study & Devotional 221

written by: Torrie Slaughter

Guiding Scripture: Proverbs 21:2,‘ Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the heart.’ 

🔴Internal Investigation

When we hear a company is conducting an internal investigation, most of us become immediately suspicious. We know we are unqualified to research a problem and find a solution if there isn’t anyone holding us accountable. Loyalty, trust, and favoritism cause the truth to remain hidden, so the parties involved can continue their routine.

So what is self-examination, and to who do we report our findings? 

As men and women of Christ, administering an exam of our bodies to check for illness or our motivation is biblically sound. It is the way we invite God through the Holy Spirit to inspect our hearts. (Psalm 26:2, Psalm 139:23,Psalm 51:10, Matthew 6:21) 

1 Samuel 16:7But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.

A Conforming Heart

I will admit that I have placed more onus on my hair, clothing, and make-up, the outward appearance, to cover how I felt. A worldly shield that kept me from sharing my faith because it made me vulnerable to attacks. I remained comfortable by conforming to worldly standards.

But God!

As King Solomon wisely wrote, God weighs the heart of every human being. God sees the Spirit within each of us, and we have the power to show everyone who God is through our behavior, thoughts, and deeds. 

Because God is with us we can go confidently into prayer, fasting, and asking the Holy Spirit to reveal our errors. The Apostle Paul teaches us in Romans 8:27, “And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.”

As you read today, think about the warnings from 1 Corinthians 5 and request God to deliver you from the strongholds of sinful behavior. Don’t let a comfortable routine become a stumbling block for you or your neighbor. Love creates a desire to do internal investigations with Christ as our divine example.  

After all what person, if a neighbor asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead? (Luke 11:11) Ask God to help you serve with love, mercy, wisdom, and kindness considering the whole picture.

🔴 The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan

Monday, August 9, 2021

Ezra 8:21-9:15, 1 Corinthians 5:1-13, Psalm 31:1-8, Proverbs 21:1-2

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