August 16

Today's Reading

Nehemiah today does what we have seen in some other Old Testament Books. He details what amounts to a census and an organizational church. These records were important for his time and remind us of the importance of some structure and organization to carry out God's work. Organization isn't life and it can't reproduce, but it sure can help manage the life of God among His people. I like to think of it as something akin to a tree. It needs food and water and pruning and trimming, but none of those "make" it grow. It grows because God gave it life. All those elements of care can help enhance and manage the growth, though.

1 Corinthians: freedom in Christ is amazing. But we must watch the temptation to abuse it. Our personal freedom should always be tamed by the highest law -- love!

Psalms: oh, how God longs for us to be brokenhearted before Him because of our sins. Then He is free to turn on the blessing spigot!

Proverbs: the truth is hardest for those who don't want to live by it, but to the godly it brings ultimate joy.

And what have you noticed today?