October 13, 2015:  SOAP #2140

Scripture:  Nehemiah (NIV) 9:31 But in your great mercy you did not put an end to them or abandon them, for you are a gracious and merciful God. … 33 In all that has happened to us, you have been just; you have acted faithfully, while we did wrong. … 35 Even while they were in their kingdom, enjoying your great goodness to them in the spacious and fertile land you gave them, they did not serve you or turn from their evil ways.

Observation:  Nehemiah was leading those who had returned to their homeland in a prayer of repentance.  God is righteous and does what is right.  But the people had turned from Him even in their time of prosperity.  Today Nehemiah could call the citizens of the USA together and lead us in the same prayer.  We are in bondage to debt, to being invaded by open borders, to loss of respect in the world, to loss of jobs, to a dwindling work force, to crumbling infrastructure, to storms, to racial unrest…  Our history seems to parallel that of Israel in so many ways.  That is with one major exception—there was a future plan for Israel while I see no future plan for the USA in God’s plans.

Application:  But there is one thing for which God has future plans—the church!   If I want the promises of God’s protection and provision, I need to be a part of the church.  There are no boundaries of language, race, or nationality for the church.  Anyone can be a part of the church!  His promises for the church go through death into eternity.

Prayer:   Lord, the greatest privilege in the world is to be a part of your church!  You are the Head and we are the body!  With you living in us we are a continuation of your Person and Ministry in the world today!   Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!