Monday, 9/12/11
Background to the text: This blog will be a little different than future ones, in that it is not rooted in the reading for the day but in some of the historical background. In particular, a certain section of scripture where God outlines some instructions to His people that ultimately pay huge dividends. So, what is that background? Well, when God's people were originally sent into exile, there were false prophets who were telling the people that they would be returning home quickly. But this was not God's plan. God would have them in captivity for many years. So, God gives the people the following instructions through the prophet Jeremiah...
This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says to all those I carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: "Build houses and settle down...marry and have sons and daughters...increase in number there, do not decrease. Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers you too will prosper. (Jer. 29:4-7)
In essence, God tells the people to do what they can to help the city prosper, so that they too will prosper. The people apparently did just that. And now, one of the young men born as a result of their obedience has prospered just as God said they would. He has become cupbearer for the king. From that position, he will work to help God's people rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. So, by obeying this command from God, they see a man named Nehemiah rise to bring them dignity and restore the worship of God in Jerusalem. Obedience in this one thing brought blessings in other things. What a good lesson for us. God always has a plan, and if we will obey him now in this place He may bring great success and blessing to others in the future. So, in the little things today...be faithful. Who knows but that your obedience may bring blessings to many...even those in future generations.
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