Why Self-Care Fuels Our Creativity and Our Relationship with Christ

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As someone who has written a lot of books, blog posts, and devotionals, I’ve come to realize that pouring out words isn’t the hardest part—it’s making sure I’m filled up enough to keep going. It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of life, to focus on productivity and forget to take the time to fuel my spirit, mind, and body. When we neglect ourselves, it’s not just our creativity that suffers—it’s our relationship with Christ.

Why Self-Care Fuels Our Creativity and Our Relationship with Christ

Why Self-Care Matters

We often think of self-care as something we’ll get to once everything else is done, but here’s the truth: how we treat our bodies, minds, and spirits directly affects our ability to live the life God has called us to. In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, we’re reminded that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. This means taking care of ourselves—physically, mentally, and spiritually—is a form of worship.

When we neglect self-care, we run on empty, and that affects everything from our productivity to our relationships. It’s easy to pour out until there’s nothing left to give. But when we take time to care for ourselves, we are also investing in our relationship with God. After all, Jesus modeled this for us! Luke 5:16 says, “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” If Jesus took time for rest and connection with the Father, how much more do we need it?

How to Fuel Your Spirit, Mind, and Body

Over the years, I’ve learned that I can’t be the best wife, mom, writer, or follower of Christ if I’m not taking care of myself. Here are some of the ways I’ve found to fuel my soul and creativity:

Reading God’s Word – It always starts here. Spending time in Scripture not only fills my spirit but gives me the strength and wisdom I need to tackle the day ahead.
Journaling my prayers – There’s something powerful about writing out my prayers. It helps me focus and opens my heart to hear from God.
Reading a devotional – I love reading devotionals that point me back to the Lord and encourage me in my walk.
Reading inspiring blogs – Sometimes a quick read from another Christian writer can reignite my creative spark and remind me I’m not alone on this journey.
Chasing my kids around – Physical activity with my kids not only makes them happy but helps me clear my mind and focus on the simple joys of life.
Feeding my visual senses – Whether it’s scrolling Pinterest or looking through beautiful photography, visual inspiration can fuel creativity in unexpected ways.
Listening to worship music – Music has the power to shift my mood and open my heart to God’s presence.
Crafting with my kids – Creating with my hands helps my mind unwind and invites moments of joy with my family.
Reading a chapter of a novel – Fiction allows me to escape for a bit, giving my mind a break from the pressures of real life.
Talking with a friend – Conversations with trusted friends can renew my spirit and remind me that we’re in this together.

These aren’t distractions—they’re ways I fill up so that I can continue to pour out. When we nurture our spirits, minds, and bodies, we’re preparing ourselves to do the work God has called us to do.

Fueling Your Creativity

God is a Creator, and He designed us in His image. That means we’re made to create, whether through writing, painting, cooking, or dreaming up new ideas. Creativity is a gift from God, and it’s one we can cultivate by taking time to fuel our minds with beauty, inspiration, and rest.

One of the best ways I’ve found to spark creativity is to brainstorm big-picture dreams. Yes, writing a shopping list is important, but taking time to dream with God opens doors you didn’t know existed. Here are a few things I’ve dreamed up that became reality:

Taking our teens on a mission trip (which turned into three trips!)
Adopting a child (we’ve adopted seven!)
Writing a book with a business guru (Ken Blanchard and I, Lead Your Family Like Jesus)
Going on a book signing tour
Being on Focus on the Family
Visiting the Holocaust Museum in DC

God invites us to dream big with Him, and I still have dreams in my heart that haven’t come to pass yet. Things like having one of my novels turned into a movie, taking my entire family on a Disney cruise, and living in the Czech Republic for a year.

How to Fuel Your Creativity and Spirit

What about you? Do you take time to fuel your creativity and dreams? Here are a few action steps you can take today to refuel:

Spend time in prayer and the Word. This is your spiritual fuel! Let God’s truth guide and strengthen you.
Get moving. Take a walk, chase your kids, or do something active that gets your body and mind refreshed.
Find visual inspiration. Whether through photography, nature, or art, take time to feast your eyes on beauty.
Take a creative break. Try journaling, reading, or doing a craft. Let yourself relax into something that fills your creative well.
Dream with God. Write down those big-picture dreams. No dream is too big for God!

Remember, you were created to create, and fueling your spirit, mind, and body is an essential part of fulfilling the purpose God has for you. Let’s trust Him to provide the strength and creativity we need for today and for the dreams we hold in our hearts.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for being our source of life and creativity. Help us to care for our spirits, minds, and bodies so that we can be fully present in the work You’ve called us to do. Fuel our creativity, breathe new dreams into our hearts, and guide us as we walk with You each day. Amen.

Want more insight? Join us in reading Job on the Daily Bible podcast! 🎧 LISTEN & 📺 WATCH

Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle

September 16
Ezra 4:7-23, Ezra 7-8

In today’s reading, we explore the unwavering determination displayed by Ezra and the Israelites as they faced daunting challenges while rebuilding the temple and returning to Jerusalem. Their story is filled with moments of opposition, discouragement, and unexpected setbacks, yet their determination was firmly rooted in their faith and obedience to God. From political opposition during the reign of King Artaxerxes to the dangerous journey led by Ezra back to Jerusalem, this narrative serves as a powerful reminder that true determination stems from a divine purpose, not merely human grit.

Opposition and Setbacks: Ezra 4:7-23

In Ezra 4:7-23, we see the first major setback: opposition from the enemies of Judah and Benjamin, who wrote to King Artaxerxes accusing the Jews of rebuilding Jerusalem with rebellious intent. This accusation leads to a decree from the king to halt the reconstruction. For a time, the enemies of the Jews succeeded in forcibly stopping the work, and the people faced a period of frustration and uncertainty. It seemed as if their efforts had been in vain, but this moment only served to strengthen their resolve for the future.

A Call to Lead: Ezra 7-8

In Ezra 7, years after the halt in reconstruction, we are introduced to Ezra, a skilled scribe who gains favor with King Artaxerxes. Ezra’s leadership is pivotal in reigniting the Israelites’ efforts to restore their city and temple. Armed with the king’s decree and resources, Ezra leads another group of exiles back to Jerusalem. Despite the dangers along the way, the people are resolute in their mission, praying and fasting for God’s protection.

In Ezra 8, Ezra carefully appoints leaders and organizes the transport of valuable items to the temple. They embark on their journey with determination, praying for God’s guidance and protection. Despite the dangers that lurked along the way, God faithfully delivered them to their destination.

Word of the Day: Determination

Definition: firmness of purpose; resoluteness.

Application #1: Divine Determination in Action

These stories from Ezra are a powerful testament to the determination that comes from aligning ourselves with God’s will. This determination goes beyond human perseverance and is rooted in a higher purpose. Despite opposition, setbacks, and discouragement, Ezra and the Israelites pressed on because they knew their mission was divinely appointed.

One of the most powerful examples of this determination is found in Ezra 8:21-22, where Ezra calls the people to fast and pray for protection on their journey back to Jerusalem:
“We prayed that [God] would give us a safe journey and protect us… I was ashamed to ask the king for soldiers and horsemen to accompany us and protect us from enemies along the way… After all, we had told the king, ‘Our God’s hand of protection is on all who worship him.’”

This is an important lesson: Trusting God should be our first option, not our backup plan. Ezra’s determination wasn’t about simply pushing through obstacles; it was about trusting God’s plan and seeking His guidance every step of the way.

Jesus is the ultimate example of divine determination. Despite the suffering He knew awaited Him, He remained resolute in fulfilling His mission to save humanity. Hebrews 12:2 reminds us of this: “We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame.”

Just as Jesus remained focused on His purpose, He calls us to follow Him with the same determination. Life will always present challenges, but through faith in Christ, we can overcome them with confidence and hope. When you face moments of doubt or difficulty, look to Jesus. His divine determination is our strength.

Application #2: Determination on the Journey

Sometimes, our determination to finish a journey isn’t just about the external obstacles we face; it’s also about the internal battles of doubt and fear. Several years ago, I was hiking in north-central Arkansas on an island trail that led to a beautiful hilltop. The guide was clear about following the trail markers, but on the way down, I lost the trail. Determined to make it back, I pressed on, grabbing trees to steady myself. At one point, the tree I grabbed fell, and I tumbled down to the next ridge. It was a moment of panic, but I knew I had to keep going.

This experience reminds me of our faith journey. Like Ezra and the Israelites, we may lose our way, stumble, or even fall. But if we fast, pray, and keep our eyes on God, He will bring us through. Our determination should always be grounded in God’s ability to guide and protect us.

September 17
Ezra 9:1 – 10:44, Nehemiah 1:1 – 2:20

In today’s reading, we journey with Ezra and Nehemiah, two faithful men who led Israel through a time of renewal—both physically, by rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, and spiritually, by restoring their relationship with God. After years of exile, the Israelites returned to find their beloved city in ruins, both morally and physically. But through prayer, repentance, and determination, they began the process of renewing their faith, identity, and purpose.

Facing Sin and Seeking Renewal: Ezra 9-10

In Ezra 9, Ezra receives the devastating news that many Israelites, including the priests and Levites, had intermarried with the pagan nations surrounding them, directly disobeying God’s commandments. This was no small matter—it risked leading Israel into idolatry once again. In deep distress, Ezra tore his clothes and sat in mourning, crying out to God in confession and grief. His prayer wasn’t just about their current sins; it acknowledged the repeated failures of the people, highlighting their long-standing disobedience.

What’s powerful here is Ezra’s humility. He didn’t point fingers; instead, he took responsibility on behalf of the entire nation. Ezra 9:6 says, “O my God, I am too ashamed and disgraced to lift up my face to you, my God, because our sins are higher than our heads and our guilt has reached to the heavens.” Ezra understood that true renewal begins with heartfelt repentance and acknowledgment of sin.

In Ezra 10, we see Shecaniah, one of the leaders, propose a radical solution: the people should divorce their foreign wives and recommit themselves to God’s law. This wasn’t an easy decision, but it was necessary for the renewal of the nation’s faith and identity. The people gathered, despite heavy rain, and made a covenant to set things right. Priests were appointed to oversee this process, ensuring that the people followed through on their commitment.

Leading with Purpose: Nehemiah 1-2

Meanwhile, Nehemiah was still in Susa, serving as cupbearer to King Artaxerxes. When he heard that the walls of Jerusalem were still in ruins, he was deeply troubled. He mourned, fasted, and prayed, asking God for the opportunity to return and lead the rebuilding efforts. Nehemiah 1:11 says, “Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man.”

Nehemiah’s determination wasn’t rooted in his own strength but in his deep reliance on God. When he approached the king, he asked for permission to return to Jerusalem, for timber to rebuild the walls, and for protection on his journey. By God’s grace, the king granted his requests, allowing Nehemiah to take on the monumental task of restoring Jerusalem’s walls.

Once in Jerusalem, Nehemiah surveyed the damage in secret, carefully planning his next steps. He rallied the people, reminding them of God’s faithfulness and calling them to rebuild the walls. Despite the opposition of Sanballat and Tobiah, who sought to undermine the efforts, Nehemiah boldly declared, “The God of heaven will help us succeed.” (Nehemiah 2:20)

Word of the Day: Renewal

Definition: The act of renewing; to make like new; restore to freshness, vigor, or perfection.

Application #1: Spiritual Renewal Begins with Repentance

In both Ezra and Nehemiah, we see that the process of renewal begins with acknowledging where things have gone wrong. In Ezra’s case, it was the intermarriage with foreign nations that had led the Israelites astray, risking their spiritual purity. Ezra’s prayer of repentance reminds us that renewal starts with humility, confession, and a desire to realign ourselves with God’s will.

Just like the Israelites, we may find ourselves in need of spiritual renewal. Perhaps we’ve drifted from God, allowed sin to take root, or neglected our relationship with Him. The good news is that renewal is always possible! God is ready to restore us if we come to Him with open hearts, just as Ezra led the people to do.

Take a moment today to reflect on any areas in your life where you need renewal. Are there things you need to confess or recommit to? God’s grace is abundant, and He is always ready to guide you back to Him, renewing your spirit and restoring your relationship with Him.

Application #2: Renewal Requires Determination and Faith

Nehemiah’s story is a powerful example of how renewal requires not only faith but also action. Nehemiah didn’t just pray for Jerusalem’s walls to be rebuilt—he took the initiative to lead the effort, trusting that God would guide and protect him every step of the way. Even in the face of opposition, Nehemiah pressed forward, knowing that his success came from God alone.

Are there areas in your life where you need to take action for renewal? Whether it’s a relationship, a dream, or your spiritual walk, remember that God calls us to partner with Him in the work of renewal. Like Nehemiah, we must be willing to pray, plan, and take action, trusting that God will provide the resources and strength we need.

Renewal isn’t a one-time event—it’s a continuous process of growth, restoration, and reconnection with God. As you seek renewal in your own life, remember that God is faithful. He will guide you and strengthen you.

September 18
Nehemiah 3:1 – 5:13, Nehemiah 6:1 – 7:3

Today’s reading in Nehemiah is filled with imagery of repair—walls being rebuilt, lives being restored, and communities coming together in a time of need. Nehemiah, in his role as a leader, not only shows us the importance of physical restoration but also highlights how God can repair the brokenness within our hearts and lives. Whether facing opposition from outside or challenges from within, Nehemiah’s story teaches us about resilience, faith, and determination.

Nehemiah 3: Rebuilding Together

In Nehemiah 3, we see a detailed account of the collective effort to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls and gates. This chapter reads like the credits of a movie, listing the names of the families, priests, and skilled workers who each took responsibility for a specific portion of the wall. It’s a beautiful reminder that rebuilding is a collaborative effort, and we aren’t meant to do it alone. Each group did their part, from goldsmiths to perfumers, showing that every skill, every person, has a role in God’s work.

I love how Nehemiah’s name is listed among the others. Nehemiah 3:16 says, “Next to him was Nehemiah son of Azbuk, the leader of half the district of Beth-zur. He rebuilt the wall from a place across from the tombs of David’s family as far as the water reservoir and the House of the Warriors.” Even as a leader, Nehemiah didn’t sit on the sidelines. He got involved in the work, just like everyone else. His example reminds us that leadership is not about being above the task but working alongside others to achieve the goal.

Nehemiah 4: Facing Opposition

As the work progressed, Nehemiah 4 describes the growing opposition from enemies like Sanballat and Tobiah, who mocked the Jews and doubted their ability to rebuild the wall. Nehemiah responded not with fear or discouragement, but with prayer. Nehemiah 4:4 says, “Then I prayed, ‘Hear us, our God, for we are being mocked. May their scoffing fall back on their own heads.’”

But Nehemiah didn’t stop at prayer. He also took practical steps to protect the people, positioning guards and ensuring that the builders were armed and ready for battle if necessary. Nehemiah reminded them of the Lord’s power, saying, “Don’t be afraid of the enemy! Remember the Lord, who is great and glorious, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes!” (Nehemiah 4:14). Despite the threats and mockery, the people continued to work with a trowel in one hand and a sword in the other.

Nehemiah 5-7: Overcoming Internal Struggles

While the external threats were daunting, Nehemiah 5 reveals that internal issues were just as challenging. Amid a famine, some Jews were exploiting their own people, charging high interest rates and enslaving their fellow Israelites. Nehemiah was furious and called them to repentance, reminding them of their duty to care for one another. The people listened, made amends, and the community was restored.

Meanwhile, Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem continued to plot against Nehemiah. But Nehemiah stood firm, famously replying, “I am engaged in a great work, so I can’t come.” (Nehemiah 6:3). Despite multiple attempts to distract and intimidate him, Nehemiah kept his focus on the task at hand, and the wall was completed in just 52 days.

In Nehemiah 7:1-3, we see the culmination of the effort as Nehemiah appoints leaders to guard the newly rebuilt walls and gates. The work was complete, but the need for vigilance and protection continued.

Word of the Day: Repaired

Definition: To restore by replacing a part or putting together what is torn or broken.

Application #1: Rebuilding Walls and Lives

The story of Nehemiah offers us insight into the process of repairing not only physical structures but also our hearts and lives. Just like the walls of Jerusalem, there are times when our lives feel broken, whether it’s due to relational struggles, personal failures, or spiritual weariness.

Collaboration: In Nehemiah 3, we see the power of working together. When you’re facing brokenness, don’t try to repair everything on your own. Reach out to your community—family, friends, or church members. God often uses others to help us rebuild and repair what’s been broken.
Prayer and Action: Nehemiah 4 teaches us that prayer is our first line of defense against opposition. But Nehemiah didn’t stop at prayer—he also took action by preparing for battle. In our lives, we need to pray for God’s strength and protection, but we also need to be proactive in addressing the challenges we face.
Internal Reflection: Nehemiah 5 shows that sometimes the biggest challenges come from within. Whether it’s sin, pride, or bad habits, we need to be willing to confront what’s hindering our progress. Only then can true healing and repair take place.
Focus and Perseverance: Nehemiah 6 reminds us that distractions will come, but we must stay focused on what God has called us to do. When opposition tries to pull you off course, stay rooted in prayer and keep your eyes on the goal.
Guarding What’s Been Repaired: Just like Nehemiah appointed guards to protect the newly rebuilt walls, we must also guard what God has restored in our lives. Whether it’s a relationship, a habit, or our spiritual walk, we need to establish boundaries and protect what God has repaired.

Application #2: Record and Remember

As you go through the process of repairing and rebuilding areas of your life, take time to record what God is doing. Keep a journal, write down specific prayers and answers, and celebrate the small victories along the way. We are forgetful people, and it’s easy to lose sight of how far God has brought us.

By documenting the repairs God has made in your life, you can look back and see His faithfulness. Share these stories with others—whether with close friends, in small groups, or even with your family. When we remember and recount what God has done, it strengthens our faith and encourages those around us.

I’ve been walking through some tough challenges lately, but as I’ve journaled and shared with trusted friends, I’ve seen how God is breaking through and bringing light into dark places. Even in the midst of difficulty, I can see that God is repairing what’s broken.

September 19
Nehemiah 7:4 – 8:12

As we read today’s chapters in Nehemiah, we encounter a powerful moment in Israel’s history. The people have returned to their land, the temple has been rebuilt, and the walls of Jerusalem are restored. Now, Nehemiah gathers the people together to hear the reading of God’s Word. What unfolds next is a deeply emotional response from the people as they realize the gravity of their sins and the overwhelming grace of God. They wept.

Nehemiah 7: Rebuilding Lives and Communities

In Nehemiah 7, the work on the walls has been completed, but the city still feels empty. The houses haven’t been rebuilt, and the population is small. Nehemiah sees the need to register the people, a census of sorts, to account for the remnant who returned from exile. These people are the pioneers—the ones who left the comfort and familiarity of their lives in Babylon to return to a desolate Jerusalem. Only 2% of the Jews exiled to Babylon chose to return. Their names are recorded, not once but twice in Scripture, emphasizing their significance in God’s plan.

This chapter reminds us that God knows each person by name. The returned exiles were few, but their dedication to God’s purpose set them apart. They were part of something greater than themselves—the restoration of God’s people and city.

Nehemiah 8: The Power of God’s Word

In Nehemiah 8, we witness the incredible power of God’s Word as it’s read aloud to the people. The entire assembly gathered at the Water Gate, eager to hear the Book of the Law of Moses. Ezra stood before them, reading from early morning until midday. The people listened intently, and as the words of the Law washed over them, their response was immediate—they wept.

The weeping wasn’t just an emotional reaction; it was a recognition of their sins and their failure to follow God’s commandments. For years, they had been disconnected from God’s Word, and now, confronted with its truth, they were overwhelmed. Nehemiah 8:9 says, “Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were interpreting for the people said to them, ‘Don’t mourn or weep on such a day as this! For today is a sacred day before the Lord your God.’”

The Word of God had done its intended work—it convicted, corrected, and reproved. The people were aware of their sins, but Nehemiah encouraged them to turn their weeping into joy. Nehemiah 8:10 says, “Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength!” This wasn’t a day for mourning but for celebrating God’s mercy and grace.

Word of the Day: Wept

Wept means “to express deep sorrow, usually by shedding tears.” The Greek verb translated “wept” is found only here in the Bible, and its root means “tears.” The people of Israel were moved to tears as they listened to the words of the Law, understanding the depth of their sin and the greatness of God’s grace.

The weeping of the people was a sign of true repentance. Their hearts were broken before God. But Nehemiah and Ezra reminded them that while sorrow over sin is important, it should never overshadow the joy of the Lord’s redemption. We are great sinners, but He is a greater Savior. Our knowledge of our sin should never be bigger than our knowledge of Jesus as our Redeemer.

Application #1: From Weeping to Joy

The response of the Israelites in Nehemiah 8 is a powerful example of how God’s Word can penetrate our hearts and lead to true repentance. They wept because they saw their sin in light of God’s holiness, but their weeping didn’t end in sorrow. Nehemiah encouraged them to rejoice because the Lord was at work among them.

This moment of conviction should remind us that God’s Word is living and active. 2 Timothy 3:16 tells us that Scripture is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness. When we are confronted with our sin through the Word, it can be painful, but it’s also the beginning of transformation. Weeping may last for a night, but joy comes in the morning. When we allow God’s Word to break our hearts over sin, it prepares us to receive the joy of His forgiveness.

Have you ever been moved to tears by God’s Word? Don’t let those tears turn into guilt or shame. Instead, let them be the start of something beautiful—the joy of the Lord is your strength. When we truly understand the depth of our sin, we also begin to grasp the overwhelming grace of God. Allow His Word to wash over you, cleanse you, and bring you into the fullness of joy.

Application #2: The Cleansing of Weeping

There’s something deeply spiritual about weeping before the Lord. It’s a time when God washes away the sin that’s weighed us down and cleanses us from within. As the Israelites wept upon hearing the Law, God was at work in their hearts, drawing them back to Himself.

In our own lives, we might experience moments of weeping—whether it’s over our sin, a broken relationship, or the struggles we face. Don’t shy away from those moments. God is working in you during those times. He is using your tears to bring about healing and restoration.

And just like Nehemiah and Ezra encouraged the people to stop weeping and celebrate, there comes a time when we, too, need to move from sorrow to joy. When we’ve laid our sin before the Lord and received His forgiveness, it’s time to rejoice in the freedom He’s given us. As Nehemiah 8:12 says, “So the people went away to eat and drink at a festive meal, to share gifts of food, and to celebrate with great joy because they had heard God’s words and understood them.”

September 20
Nehemiah 8:13 – 10:39

Nehemiah 8:13-18: A Call to Action and Celebration
After the public reading of the Law, the leaders and Ezra gathered to dive deeper into Scripture. They rediscovered a command to celebrate the Feast of Booths, a festival remembering the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness. Moved by this discovery, the people gathered branches and constructed temporary shelters, observing the feast with unprecedented dedication since Joshua’s days. For seven days, Ezra read from the Book of the Law, and the people rejoiced, ending with a solemn assembly as required by the law.

This is a beautiful moment of rediscovery, obedience, and celebration. It wasn’t just a festival; it was a revival sparked by the Word of God and a deep desire to live out His commands.

Nehemiah 9: Confession, Repentance, and God’s Mercy
The next chapter is a powerful display of repentance. The Israelites gathered, fasting, wearing sackcloth, and putting dust on their heads, mourning their sins and those of their ancestors. For three hours, they stood listening to the Book of the Law, and for another three, they confessed their sins and worshiped. The Levites led the people in a prayer that recounted Israel’s history, acknowledging God’s faithfulness despite their recurrent disobedience.

Verse 9:28 beautifully captures God’s mercy: “Yet whenever your people turned and cried to you again for help, you listened once more from heaven. In your wonderful mercy, you rescued them many times!” This chapter is a heartfelt confession of the people’s failures and a reminder of God’s continuous deliverance and patience.

Nehemiah 10: A Covenant Sealed
In Nehemiah 10, we see the people making a promise—a written, signed, and sealed covenant to follow God’s laws. This wasn’t just a personal commitment; it was a community-wide declaration to turn from wickedness and live according to God’s commands. They promised to honor God in their marriages, not marry outside Israel, honor the Sabbath, and bring their firstfruits and firstborn to the temple.

These actions were a bold commitment to prioritize God and His temple, showing that true renewal isn’t just spiritual but practical, touching every aspect of life.

Word of the Day: Promise
A promise is a declaration or assurance that one will do a particular thing or that a particular thing will happen. Today, we witnessed the power of promises—both God’s promises to His people and the people’s promises to God.

The people of Israel rediscovered God’s faithfulness as they reflected on their history. They remembered how God provided for their ancestors, even in the wilderness, and renewed their commitment to Him through confession and a written covenant. This act of renewal was not just about knowledge but about action—a declaration to follow through on what they knew to be true.

Takeaway: What Does This Mean for You and Me?

The Word is Our Guide: Like the Israelites, we must seek guidance from Scripture to align our lives with God’s will. We can’t rely on feelings or culture to lead us but must return to God’s Word for direction.
Action Follows Understanding: Don’t just be a hearer of the Word; be a doer. Like the Israelites who celebrated the Feast of Booths after learning about it, we must act on what God reveals to us.
Remember His Promises: When life is tough, reflect on how God has been faithful. Write down His promises and the ways He has fulfilled them in your life.
Confession is Key to Transformation: Confession brings healing and transformation. The Israelites weren’t afraid to come to God with their shortcomings, and neither should we.
Seal Your Promise with God: Whether it’s writing it down or simply pausing to pray, make a commitment to follow God’s ways. It’s not about perfection but about trust and obedience.

God’s promises are unbreakable, and He invites us to respond with our own promises of faithfulness. Let’s commit to following His ways, trusting that He is faithful to fulfill every promise He has made.

September 21
Nehemiah 11:1 – 12:26, 1 Chronicles 9:1 – 34

Nehemiah 11: Choosing Valor in the City of God
In Nehemiah 11, we see an extraordinary moment in Israel’s history. Jerusalem, the holy city, had been rebuilt, but it remained largely unpopulated, its houses in disrepair. Nehemiah initiated a lottery, calling one in ten people to move into the city. Though Jerusalem was the center of worship and culture, it wasn’t an easy place to live—it lacked economic opportunities, and it was always under threat from enemies. Those chosen displayed valor by stepping up to reside in a place that symbolized both challenge and spiritual significance. These families understood that to rebuild the city was not just about constructing walls but fostering a community that honored God’s name.

Nehemiah 12: The Valor of Spiritual Leaders
In Nehemiah 12:1-26, we read about the priests and Levites who returned to Jerusalem to serve in the temple. These individuals were responsible for leading the people in worship, guiding them in obedience to God’s Law, and ensuring the spiritual vitality of the community. Their valor was not physical; it was spiritual. Leading a people who had endured exile and needed spiritual renewal required tremendous courage, faith, and dedication. The priests and Levites knew their role was vital for the well-being of God’s people, and they accepted the responsibility with strength and purpose.

1 Chronicles 9: Valor in Service to God
In 1 Chronicles 9:1-34, the Israelites who returned from exile are documented, specifically those who served in the temple. We read about the priests, Levites, gatekeepers, and musicians. Each played a role in the house of God, from guarding the gates to leading worship. These positions might not seem glamorous, but each one required commitment and bravery. They were individuals of valor, willing to serve in ways that were often behind the scenes but essential for preserving the worship and sanctity of God’s people.

Word of the Day: Valor
Valor is defined as “great courage in the face of danger, especially in battle.” When we think of valor, we often picture warriors on a battlefield. But as we see in these passages, valor also comes in the form of spiritual and everyday service. It’s choosing to follow God’s call, even when it’s inconvenient, challenging, or dangerous.

What Can We Learn from These Examples of Valor?

Valor is a Daily Choice
When the people moved to Jerusalem, they didn’t just make a one-time decision. Every day they had to wake up and choose to live in a city that was vulnerable and still in need of rebuilding. Valor is about showing up daily for God’s work, even when it’s hard.
Valor is Service
From priests to gatekeepers, everyone played a role in God’s plan. Just as they served in the temple, we are called to serve in the church, in our communities, and in our families. Service, no matter how humble, is a form of valor when done in God’s name.
Valor is Rooted in Purpose
Whether you’re a leader like Nehemiah, a priest, or a gatekeeper, your role in God’s kingdom is significant. God doesn’t measure valor by the size of the task but by the heart with which it is performed. Find your purpose, and serve with courage and dedication.
Valor Stems from Commitment
As we see in Nehemiah 12 and 1 Chronicles 9, these men and women were committed to God’s work. Valor isn’t just about bravery in the face of danger; it’s about unwavering commitment to God’s mission, even when it’s difficult or doesn’t come with worldly recognition.

Takeaway
As we reflect on these passages, let’s remember that God calls each of us to live lives of valor. Whether it’s in raising a family, standing firm in your faith, or serving in your community, valor is about courageously doing what God has called you to do, even when it’s hard.

Joshua 1:9 reminds us, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” Whether your task seems big or small, do it with valor, knowing God is with you.

September 22
Nehemiah 12:27 – 13:6, Nehemiah 5:14 – 19, Neihemiah 13:7 – 31, Malachi 1:1 – 2:9

Nehemiah 12:27-47: The Dedication of the Wall

In Nehemiah 12, we see a beautiful picture of worship and thanksgiving as Nehemiah leads the dedication of the newly rebuilt wall of Jerusalem. The Levites, priests, and singers from surrounding areas are brought to Jerusalem for a specific purpose: to lead in worship. The Levites purify themselves, the people, the gates, and the wall, preparing for a time of celebration and gratitude. Nehemiah then organizes two large choirs who march atop the wall in opposite directions, meeting at the temple to offer great sacrifices. The entire city is filled with joy, as the sound of cymbals, harps, lyres, and voices fill the air. This wasn’t just a celebration of a physical wall but a spiritual moment, where God’s faithfulness is remembered, and His presence is honored.

Nehemiah 13:1-31: Returning to Holiness

As we continue in Nehemiah 13, the story takes a turn when Nehemiah discovers that while he was away, things in Jerusalem had gone astray. Eliashib the priest had provided Tobiah, an enemy of the Jews, a chamber within the temple. Nehemiah’s response is swift and passionate. He throws out Tobiah’s belongings, purifies the room, and restores it for its intended purpose. Nehemiah also addresses the neglect of the Levites and the profaning of the Sabbath. His zeal for the sanctity of the temple and the people’s holiness drives him to take action, ensuring that God’s commands are followed and the people are faithful. Nehemiah’s story concludes with a prayer, asking God to remember him favorably for his efforts to restore the people to obedience.

Malachi 1 & 2:1-9: The Messenger

Malachi is the last book before the New Testament, serving as a bridge between the Old and New Covenants. In Malachi 1, God expresses His deep love for Israel, but the people doubt Him. They offer polluted sacrifices, showing their disrespect for the Lord. God calls them out, reminding them of His greatness and His expectation that they honor Him with pure hearts and offerings. In Malachi 2:1-9, God addresses the priests who have failed to guard the temple’s purity, leading people into sin. He warns them to repent and honor His name, emphasizing the importance of purity in both the leaders and the people.

Word of the Day: Choir

Definition: An organized group of singers, typically one that takes part in church services or performs regularly in public.

Application #1:

In Nehemiah 12, the choir plays a central role in the worship and dedication of the wall. They lead the people in praising God and giving thanks, and their voices of joy fill the city. This passage, along with others in the Bible, reminds us of the power of music in worship and the unity it brings. The Levites, purified and ready to lead, demonstrate that approaching God with a clean heart is essential.

Choirs aren’t just for organized performances; they represent a collective voice raised in worship. Whether in ancient Jerusalem, Solomon’s temple, or the choirs of heaven in Revelation 19, choirs symbolize unity, celebration, and the presence of God. Just like the choirs of Nehemiah’s day, we are called to join together in worship, lifting our voices in gratitude and praise.

Application #2:

When I think of choirs, I’m reminded of my childhood church. We had a small choir that sang with great passion and joy. It may not have been the most polished group, but their hearts were fully engaged in worship. This reminds me that worship isn’t about perfection; it’s about participation. It’s about lifting our voices together, whether in a choir or individually, to honor God.

Psalm 100:2 says, “Worship the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs.” Choirs, both in ancient times and today, invite us to enter God’s presence with joy. Whether in church or at home, take a moment to lift your voice in song, remembering that worship is a powerful way to connect with the heart of God.