Dark Horses: Overlooked Heroes Day 10
Day 10 - Friday, July 05
Read Nehemiah 8
Highlight
The people gather to hear the Word of God, and as it is read and explained, they are moved to tears and repentance. The Israelites, removed by generations from the law given by God to their ancestors, are suddenly struck by its meaning afresh. That feels familiar. How often do we read Scripture as if it was written for someone else? It’s as if a veil is lifted from the eyes of the people and they respond not just with agreement, but with obedience and action. Nehemiah and Ezra encourage the people to celebrate and find joy in the Lord, inviting God’s Word to bring revival. The story of Nehemiah is not just about what God can do through one faithful follower willing to lead others to accomplish the mission…although it is that. It’s also a story of spiritual renewal. Nehemiah recognized the importance of God's Word and worship in the life of the community and he tends not just to their physical needs, but the needs of their soul.
Reflection & Prayer
For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method. It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading. It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal. But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.
S.O.A.P. Method
Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal. Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.” What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?
Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage. What is this passage or verse saying about God? About people? How is Jesus revealed in these verses?
Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life. Is there truth about God that you are to believe? Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth? Who could you share this story with and how God is speaking to you about it this week?
Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture. Be honest and express your heart to Him. God always listens and He delights in your prayers (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8).
Read Nehemiah 8
Highlight
The people gather to hear the Word of God, and as it is read and explained, they are moved to tears and repentance. The Israelites, removed by generations from the law given by God to their ancestors, are suddenly struck by its meaning afresh. That feels familiar. How often do we read Scripture as if it was written for someone else? It’s as if a veil is lifted from the eyes of the people and they respond not just with agreement, but with obedience and action. Nehemiah and Ezra encourage the people to celebrate and find joy in the Lord, inviting God’s Word to bring revival. The story of Nehemiah is not just about what God can do through one faithful follower willing to lead others to accomplish the mission…although it is that. It’s also a story of spiritual renewal. Nehemiah recognized the importance of God's Word and worship in the life of the community and he tends not just to their physical needs, but the needs of their soul.
Reflection & Prayer
For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method. It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading. It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal. But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.
S.O.A.P. Method
Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal. Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.” What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?
Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage. What is this passage or verse saying about God? About people? How is Jesus revealed in these verses?
Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life. Is there truth about God that you are to believe? Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth? Who could you share this story with and how God is speaking to you about it this week?
Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture. Be honest and express your heart to Him. God always listens and He delights in your prayers (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8).
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