“Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and teacher of the Law, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to them all, ‘This day is holy to the Lord your God. Do not mourn or weep.” For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law.Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.’ The Levites calmed all the people, saying, ‘Be still, for this is a holy day. Do not grieve.’ Then all the people went away to eat and drink, to send portions of food and to celebrate with great joy, because they now understood the words that had been made known to them.” (Nehemiah 9:9-12 NIV)
This is your Monday Short meditation. Perhaps, like God’s people in the text above, you, one of God’s children in this day and time, were in the assembly of the saints yesterday and something that was spoken from God’s word spoke directly to you, convincing you that repentance was necessary, or perhaps you felt some regret for some words or some act that did not reflect you commitment to live as a follower of Christ. First, don’t feel like this only applies to you. We all have failings. We all sin and fall short of the glory of God. Now listen! I have some words for you that should be uplifting.
Take note now! Here are the words to remember: God’s word is not to make us cry hard, but rather it is to move us to try harder. Stop crying and start trying, even if it is in the smallest, the tiniest aspect of your life that you need to make some adjustments and then resume making perfect progress on your spiritual journey. Wipe your eyes, my friend, and rejoice in the fact that God is merciful and gracious toward His own. Celebrate and commence to living holy and living right. Be blessed!
“Why are you in despair, my soul? And why are you restless within me?
Wait for God, for I will again praise Him. For the help of His presence, my God.” (Psalm 42:11 NASB)
Committed to the climb,
Mark L. King
It’s not that I am crying. However, I do know that there are several opportunities where I could make adjustments. Rather than cry, I do feel uncomfortable, and shift towards being better. I know that whatever I do that is not pleasing to God, and whatever I don’t do that is not pleasing to God, He will continue to guide me, love me, and forgive me. This meditation is a good admonishment to me and I’m certain it will be for others.
Thank you for your openness and please know that your reflecting responses let me know that continuing to publish these meditations for the 10th year are beneficial. Bless you, Dr. King.