Monday, November 30, 2015

The Restoration, part 4: Time for Persistence

God called Nehemiah to a task.  There were countless obstacles and troubles in completing that task, but he worked to finish.  How often do we think about finishing the task God has given us?  What does it take to persevere until our calling is complete?


Tuesday, November 24, 2015

The Restoration, part 3: Time for Joy

For our Thanksgiving and Lord's Supper message, we looked at the Jews' celebration after they had rebuilt the Jerusalem wall.  Many problems still persisted, and they had sorrow over their sin.  But it was not time for weeping but for joy and celebration.  This week, we look at the importance of taking time to rejoice and celebrate God's faithfulness in your life.


Monday, November 16, 2015

The Restoration, part 2: Restoration Resources

Throughout the Old Testament, we see God using pagan nations and armies as His hand of judgment on His people, but the remarkable story of Ezra and Nehemiah show how God worked through pagan kings to restore and bless His people.

These kings gave each of these men particular directives meant to restore and strengthen Jerusalem.  These jobs in Jerusalem's restoration mirror two of the works God must do to complete the job of restoration in our lives as well.


Sunday, November 1, 2015

The Restoration, part 1: Restored for a Purpose

Have you ever walked into a room, got yourself involved in one thing and then another, and when you left the room you realized that you failed to do what you went into the room to do in the first place?  Well, the exiled Jews went back to Jerusalem and forgot what they were sent back to do, and God sent the prophet Haggai to remind them.

What happens when we lose focus?  What is God's promise for when we put first things first?

In this little book from the "clean part of your bible," God speaks a very contemporary word to us through His prophet Haggai.