It is always a great day when God’s people sing His praises. In this passage, the people shouted for joy because “the foundation of the of the Lord was laid” (Ezra 3:12). The scene was more conducive to humility than pride.
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The condition of Jerusalem during Nehemiah’s day resembled many parts of our communities—in ruins, with broken down or nonexistent walls. Nehemiah could have succumbed to despair but issued a call to rebuild instead.
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The human psyche is naturally drawn to light, but more than that, we need it. The marble caverns known as the Oregon Caves underscore this in a dramatic way. Once inside, a park ranger guides visitors along the path until they reach a certain point.
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During trips to Washington, D.C., I often walk past the WWII, Korean, Vietnam, and Civil War Memorials. I am constantly challenged by these reminders of the extreme measures our soldiers took to defend their homeland and that of others.
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The evidence of Jesus’ entrance into their welcoming hearts was clear to all—steadfast in doctrine and fellowship and a shared concern for others fueled by the Holy Spirit. Biblical doctrine, learned in humble submission to God’s Spirit is always the right order for spiritual effectiveness and power.
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The word grace brings such joyful freedom to the human heart that it’s no wonder the last verse of the last book of the Bible ends with this benediction.
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Grow up! This command seems to be on the lips of every well-intentioned parent. But are we sure that pressing our child to grow is always a good idea? As adults, I believe we must fight the temptation to “grow up” regarding spiritual things and return to a simple, faith-filled, and adventurous life with Him.
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Jesus was always on the move, so when He said, “Let us cross over to the other side” (Mark 4:35), the disciples set sail—and then a great windstorm arose. I wonder if the disciples anticipated smooth sailing because Jesus told them to go.
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A house overgrown with weeds and vines announces to passersby that very little time has been spent maintaining the home. But more than a lack of gardening, the outside speaks of what is potentially happening inside. Solomon’s sweetheart lamented that other’s demands were the cause of her vineyard’s neglect.
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Year after year, the Midianites swooped in to steal Israel’s crops, and every year, the Jews resorted to drastic measures to hang onto the little left behind. But God, in His mercy, provided a deliverer—Gideon. Prior to this, there is no record of Gideon’s courageous exploits, yet the Lord called him a “mighty man of valor.”
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