16-Jan-24
What does it say?
Nehemiah and the Israelites completed the task of rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem and celebrated the event by offering a ceremony of praise to God.
What does it mean?
Consider how the odds were stacked against Nehemiah and the Israelites’ completing the wall. They returned from captivity to a devastated capital city. They were poor, outnumbered, and surrounded by violent enemies. The future of the entire nation rested on the success of this small band. Yet God’s provision was more than enough to ensure success. The people’s natural response was to give all the credit for that success to God. The celebration, which could be heard far away, spilled over into their daily lives as they gave generously to support the Levites and the temple services.
How should I respond?
Birthdays, graduations, and anniversaries are all reasons for celebration. Today’s passage reminds us that celebration is also in order when a God-given goal is completed. Like the Israelites, the focus of the celebration should be on God’s provision and enabling, not our own efforts. What task has God given you to do? How has He provided for your success despite the obstacles? Take time to stop and celebrate accomplishments at home, at work, and in ministry. If it has been some time since you last celebrated God’s unfailing goodness, today is a great day to start.