June 28; Day 35

Nehemiah

I chose to read the entire book of Nehemiah today though it goes a bit outside of today's reading. It's just easier to read a little more and keep the entire book together... and I'm glad I did.

There is so much to learn here in how Nehemiah "gets results through people" and the wall is actually rebuilt. I also learn a lot about how to face opposition. Nehemiah certainly is a strong leader of people. Yet the conviction I gained from reading this book came from the very last verse... "Remember me with favor, O my God." (Neh 13:31b)

What must have been going through Nehemiah's head when he wrote this? As he was leading this massive project involving thousands of volunteers he certainly must have been frustrated. He certainly must have thought about giving up many times. He probably lost his temper more than once as it was happening. Perhaps he even did somethings he's not very proud about. Yet he was following what God had called him to do. Following God is not always easy OR comfortable. As a result of his toil and his frustration, but also as a result of his tenacity and obedience - he is asking God to remember him with favor.

I spoke about God's favor a few days ago in my blog. Not just God's material blessings, but God's favor. Remember me with favor. I can't with a clean conscience ask God to remember me with favor if I've not done anything favorable. I can't simply ask God to remember my works as favorable unless I first acknowledge him as my God.

http://jims90days.blogspot.com/2008/06/june-26-day-33.html

Do I have the right to ask God to remember ME with favor? Have I done anything that honors the Lord? Do my works show the fruit of the Spirit in me? Though I'm sure I've done some "good things" in my life, I seem to remember those that have kept me from God's favor even more.

Today as I read this verse slowly and simply, I want to make it my prayer. Remember em with favor, O my God. May this be convicting for my actions today, tomorrow and the many days to come.

Perhaps it has also convicted you... go forth in seeking God's favor.