God's Word - Good for Daily Sanctification

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | December 13, 2023 | Nehemiah 8:18

KEY VERSE:

Also day by day, from the first day until the last day, he read from the Book of the Law of God. Nehemiah 8:18 (NKJV)

MESSAGE:

In many cultures, taking a daily bath is a ritual of purification and renewal. Similarly, immersing ourselves in the Word of God can be a daily cleansing for our souls. Just as dust and grime accumulate throughout the day, so too can doubts and anxieties cloud our minds. But just as a refreshing bath washes away physical dirt, so too can scripture wash away spiritual impurities.

The Israelites, after years of exile and uncertainty, needed to rediscover their connection to God and their heritage. The Law served as a guidepost, reminding them of who they were and who their God was. For us, too, scripture offers a roadmap for navigating the complexities of life. It provides moral guidance, whispers of comfort in times of darkness, and a constant reminder of God's love and presence.

Jesus said, "Because of the words I have spoken to you, you have been made clean." John 15:3 (NIV). Just as soap and water cleanse the body, the Word of God cleanses the heart and mind. But like a daily bath, this cleansing isn't a one-time event. We encounter "dirt" every day, through negative thoughts, temptations, and the challenges of life. To stay spiritually refreshed, we must make time for daily immersion in scripture, whether through reading, reflection, or sharing it with others.

FEET AND HANDS OF THE MESSAGE:

You need the cleansing power of the Word of God to keep you clean daily. A daily dose of His Word is important to maintain your sanity and your sanctity. Read the word daily.

PRAYER:

Dear Lord Jesus, may I have intimacy with you daily through your word. May I grow to know you more and more by studying your word daily. May your word make me clean and keep me clean daily. For your dear name’s sake. Amen.

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!

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DAILY word study: DAY BY DAY

The phrase "day by day" in Nehemiah 8:18 is translated from the Hebrew "יוֹם בְּיוֹם" (yom b'yom). "יוֹם" (yom) means day, and "בְּיוֹם" (b'yom) means by day. The repetition emphasizes the regularity and continuity of the action.

The phrase "day by day" is a common biblical expression used to denote regularity, consistency, or continual occurrence. It often appears in the context of daily activities, routines, or offerings.

For instance, in Exodus 29:38-42, God instructs the Israelites to offer a lamb as a burnt offering to Him every morning and every evening. This practice was to be done day by day, emphasizing the constancy and regularity of the ritual.

In Nehemiah 8:18, the phrase is associated with the reading of the Book of the Law. The people gathered daily to hear and understand God's Word. This regular engagement with Scripture was foundational for their spiritual growth and understanding.

Reflections:

Reflecting on this, we can consider the importance of a daily commitment to God's Word in our lives. How often do we engage with the Scriptures? Is it a daily practice, or is it sporadic? The regularity of this practice is crucial for spiritual nourishment and growth.

In our busy lives, how can we establish a daily habit of engaging with God's Word, ensuring that it becomes a consistent and integral part of our lives, just as the people in Nehemiah's time gathered day by day to hear and understand the Scriptures?