God's Sacred Word

Scripture: So Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly, both men and women and all who could understand what they heard, on the first day of the seventh month. And he read from it facing the square before the Water Gate from early morning until midday, in the presence of the men and the women and those who could understand. And the ears of all the people were attentive to the Book of the Law. Nehemiah 8:2-3

Observation: The first recorded official act after the walls of Jerusalem have been rebuilt is the reading of The Law. We see this as a repeated activity - the reading of scripture done to mark milestones. Moses did it upon the Exodus (he had to get the Law first); Joshua did it claiming the promised land; even Jesus did it to declare his mission at the start of his ministry AND to teach the disciples their mission after his resurrection.

The word of God in the Bible is more than just good teaching ... it is itself sacred. That isn't to say we should worship a book, but we should understand that we are to worship God by taking his word as so important that it is worthy of being the focal point of every important activity in our lives.

Application: I am reminded again that my discipline with devotions is more than just "lessons" I need to learn. This is special, sacred time in my life every day. It is to be taken seriously. Reading the Bible does more than teach me something, it blesses my life, and the lives of my family, my friends, and my coworkers. When taken seriously, it can set a tone for my days and my attitude, and it can radiate into every element of my work and activities.

Reading the Word can anoint a temple, restore a nation, sanctify a city, aid an endeavor ... and it can certainly bless me if I properly engage in humility and faith.

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for providing your Word - for creating this way to learn and grow and mature every day. My devotional time is a blessing, and I regret waiting so late in life to begin this wonderful journey with you. Help me every day to find the space and time and heart to focus on your Word, so I may become a better disciple of Jesus, and so your blessings in my life can in turn become greater blessings for others. Amen.