RPG Adults
ELEMENTS OF CONGREGATIONAL SERVICE (XII)
TUESDAY, MARCH 17
Nehemiah 10:28-39
1 Corinthians 5:6-11
“A little leaven leaveneth
the whole lump.”
ELEMENTS OF CONGREGATIONAL SERVICE (XII)
The people, united in resolve and purpose, took concrete steps and made tangible decisions that would help them in their consecration. Some of the decisions were difficult from the human point of view, but their view was expressed clearly in their prayer and in the oath they took.
We would not give our daughters unto the people of the land, nor take their daughters for our sons (Neh 10:30). The people recognised that compromise would weaken resolve and a “little leaven leaveneth the whole lump” (Gal 5:9). They therefore purposed to separate from the people of the land in all facets of life. They purposed to practise what they believed at all costs, deeming the safety of their souls and the pleasure of God worth every sacrifice and loss made. Thus, in marriage, they refused to intermarry with the people of the nations (Neh 10:30). In economics, they chose to honour God, and thus resolved to observe the sabbath and not profane it. They would not promote those who dishonoured the sabbath. They also purposed to follow God’s instructions on debts and gave the God-ordained release in the year of release as instructed in Deuteronomy 15. Thus, they would conduct business, not by the accepted norms and practices, but according to God’s Word (Neh 10:31).
Also we made ordinances for us (Neh 10:32). In addition to the provisions of God’s law that they decided to live by, they also made provisions that would help them provide for the house and work of God. This was because of the challenges of the times and the conditions they were living in, seeing that the Temple was yet to be built. To facilitate the services during the difficult times they were in (remember the poverty and drought that was addressed in Nehemiah 5), they taxed themselves (Neh 10:32-33). They also offered to bring wood for the altar, taking turns according to lots that were cast (though this had been the Nethinims’ duty before the captivity), adding to their works of piety and charity. Their intent was clear: to do all they could so that worship would continue as required.
THOUGHT: God’s Word puts value to life, and gives direction to decisions.
PRAYER: (Pray to live right and to support God’s work as much as possible.)