TUESDAY June 20, 2017
Notice how the people expressed tremendous amounts of emotion. God’s Spirit was working in their hearts. Among those who gathered in the open square, were the older Jews. These elders began to reflect on their past disobedience. For years, the Jews had suffered in captivity. What had happened to them was a direct result of disobeying what God had told them in Deuteronomy 28-30.
In Babylon the Jews could not worship the Lord. Now that, Nehemiah had secured the city by rebuilding the wall, they could safely worship the Lord together without concern of their enemies attacking. As they heard God’s Word and worshiped Him; they knew, in their hearts, God’s grace was extended to them. This older generation understood how they had failed. Then they were overcome with emotion, which caused them to break down, and they mourned and wept.
People will suffer the consequences of their sins. Many realize they have sinned against God, and in repentance they weep and mourn over their sinful mistakes. Understand that all those who are broken in heart over their sins, will be comforted by the Lord. The Bible tells us: The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit (Psalm 34:18). As a sinner comes back to God, He extends His mercy and grace to them (1 John 1:9). The Lord will restore their lives. Then they will not mourn anymore, but worship the Lord freely.
If find yourself far away from the Lord, and still captive by your sins. Then sincerely repent and come back to God (James 4:7-10). He loves you!
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!
