Sunday Words of Encouragement March 10, 2024 Hungry for the Word.

I enjoyed good worship, prayer and a word from God this morning. Then Pastor started a message from Nehemiah 8. This narrative shifts from the building of the wall to the call to the people to spiritual focus as they return from captivity. The people gathered and asked Ezra, the teacher of the law, to read the word of God. The people were eager, hungry, to hear the Word. Ezra read from early morning till midday and the people listened attentively. Nehemiah 8:1-3.

All scripture is given by God and is instructive and authoritative. 2 Timothy 3:16-17.

Here are four reasons to hunger after the Word.

1. It teaches Doctrine – what we are to believe. We are disciples, not just experiencers or learners. Our spirit will respond to the Truth of the Word.
2. It is good for Reproof = examine, test, or bring to light areas that God wants us to work on. The Word is alive and powerful. Hebrew 4:12
3. It provides Correction and direction. That we might not sin against God. Psalm 119:10-11.
4. It guides us in Righteousness. It teaches us how to be in right relationship with the Lord.

They worshiped with the Word. They stood in reference. Ezra praised. They bowed and worshipped. Nehemiah 8:5-6. They came with expectation. Reading the Word should be a worship event. The Levites helped to instruct so the people could understand. Nehemiah 8:7-8. The people were weeping because of the sin of the past. But the leaders proclaimed the day “Holy” and said, ‘do not grieve.’ Nehemiah 8:9-10. “For the joy of the Lord is your strength.” V10. Serving the Lord in obedience brings joy.

“…to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.” Deuteronomy 8:1-3.

This wasn’t my initial song choice, but after listening to it I chose it for the Joy is my Strength and Praise.

Verses for Today:
Nehemiah 8:1-3, part of 10 NIV
1 all the people came together as one in the square before the Water Gate. They told Ezra the teacher of the Law to bring out the Book of the Law of Moses, which the Lord had commanded for Israel.
2 So on the first day of the seventh month Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly, which was made up of men and women and all who were able to understand. 3 He read it aloud from daybreak till noon as he faced the square before the Water Gate in the presence of the men, women and others who could understand. And all the people listened attentively to the Book of the Law.
10. ... Do not grieve, For The Joy Of The Lord Is Your Strength."

Lord, please keep me hungry for Your Word so I might know You better, be closer to You, and do Your Will.