Session 24

Change Your "Amen" to "I’m in!"

From Chasing Purpose: A 27-Day Devotional

The book of Nehemiah takes place after Babylon defeated Israel destroying the city of Jerusalem and exiling God’s people to Babylon. Time passes, a new king comes to power, and Nehemiah leads a rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls.

But when Nehemiah arrives, he finds more than broken walls. He finds a broken people. So after rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls, Nehemiah gathers everyone together to hear the priest read God’s Law, the first five books of the Bible.

Imagine the people’s surprise and contrition as they realize they hadn’t been keeping God’s commands. Determined to get back on track, they start by reinstating the Festival of Booths, a reminder that when their ancestors were in the wilderness, God provided them booths to dwell in (Leviticus 23).

The people’s obedience led to “very great rejoicing” (Nehemiah 8:17). A lot has changed since Nehemiah’s day, but one thing remains the same among God’s people. We still experience the most joy when we exhibit the most obedience.

We’ve all heard a sermon or read a verse and thought, "Yeah, I need to do that." Then, we leave the church or close the Bible, and forget all about it. Information by itself won’t change us. But the consistent application of what we’re learning will transform us.

Life change happens when we listen to Jesus and do what He says. When Jesus reveals your next step, don’t delay. Sign up for that mission trip. Say you’re sorry. Invite a friend to church. You won’t regret it, no matter how hard it is.

Reflect:

• What’s the craziest thing God has ever asked you to do? What did you learn about Him through your obedience?
  
• What’s one way obeying God helps you live with purpose?