October 09, 2020: SOAP #3963:  Nehemiah 1-2; Psalm 133-134; Luke 22

Scripture:  Nehemiah (NIV) 2:7 I also said to him, “If it pleases the king, may I have letters to the governors of Trans-Euphrates, so that they will provide me safe-conduct until I arrive in Judah? 8 And may I have a letter to Asaph, keeper of the king’s forest, so he will give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel by the temple and for the city wall and for the residence I will occupy?” And because the gracious hand of my God was upon me, the king granted my requests.

Observation:  The sadness in Nehemiah’s heart showed on his face and the king saw it and asked.  The king could have said that he did not want any sad people around him and have Nehemiah (his cup bearer) put to death.  But God was with him!   The king then asked what Nehemiah wanted to do and what was needed.  AMAZING! The king granted his requests! 

Nehemiah knew it was not because of him, nor was it because of the good will of the king.  It was because “the gracious hand of my God was upon me.” 

Application:  The presence of God in our lives makes us attractive.  It brings favor when we do not expect it.  It brings us favor from unexpected sources. 

Favor is somewhat like momentum.  It is not something that can be seen, but its results are easily seeable.  Favor cannot be demanded; it is granted.  The reason favor is granted is only known to the one extending the favor.  God’s favor is an expression of His grace and mercy.

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, I know I do not deserve your favor, but I do want to live my life in a way that makes it easy for you to give me favor.  Your favor far outweighs any opposition from the enemy. 

Father, for the SOAP readers, I pray two things.  First, grant them your favor today.  Second, help them to recognize your favor and give you praise and glory.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!