Nehemiah 8:8. “So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading.” FACTS OF RECOVERY. The Word of God is opened – the people have gathered to hear. The words are spoken distinctly – the Spirit of God is near. They hear the actual words first – then hear the interpretation. When they really knew what it meant – it caused great consternation.
When first we hear God’s Word clearly – we find we are convicted, As the Holy Spirit reveals to us areas of truth we have neglected. There probably will be tears of repentance as we bow in humiliation. But the first step of recovery comes when we give God’s Word real appreciation.
They gathered together the second day to hear what God had to say. They learned from the Word of God, what He says, He expects us to obey. Without delay they rose up to act knowing faith is not just mental assent. So instead of waiting for a convenient time, they immediately rose up and went.
There are times when we understand more clearly, God is not just making a suggestion. He makes plain through His Word He is expecting obedience; faith then springs into action. In our souls we are convicted that what God said is truly inspired. The second step of recovery is God creates in us brand new desires.
When the Word of God was read again, some remarkable things did occur. They stopped all their secular activities, and to the teaching they did concur. First came confession of their wickedness; then of the mercies of the Lord. Worship follows quickly after confession as we become conscious of the presence of God.
The recognition of wrongs brings repentance as when our first love we have left. Unequal yokes have to be dealt with; they leave God’s people bereft.
Things and people out of place must be changed; high profession; lukewarm practice must be gone. There is an awareness of corrections to be made when we set about to right our wrongs.
When steps of faith are taken and we truly seek first the kingdom of God, The grace of God becomes real to us and we commit ourselves to follow the Lord. Confession and worship express appreciation as our life takes on a new bent. The third step of recovery is God uses us and there are new accomplishments.
“Heavenly Father, as this day unfolds, may my appreciation of Thy Word, be enhanced. May my desires be to truly obey he Word as I read it and the Holy Spirit reveals its truth. May I be able to accomplish something of value today and in the days ahead, honor Thee and bring glory to Thee. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”