Nehemiah 11:1a Now the leaders of the people settled in Jerusalem….
It is hard for me to know what to write today because I know where this book is headed. The actions in this chapter seem quite positive—Jerusalem is rebuilt, it is in the process of being repopulated. The progress is beautiful and positive. They know it won’t be easy, but they are willing to try.
Nehemiah 11:1b … The rest of the people cast lots to bring one out of every ten of them to live in Jerusalem, the holy city, while the remaining nine were to stay in their own towns.
This reminds me of a famous Yoda (from Star Wars) quote: “Do or do not. There is no try.” I kind of feel like I went through first semester with that attitude, and it resulted in a feeling of mere survival, not a triumphant, I am more than a conqueror, feeling of accomplishment for my Savior. And the problem is within me, with my attitude. “I’ll try” doesn’t imply seeking my Savior every day, trusting Him when things are utterly awful, praising Him for the blessings. “I’ll try” is a lukewarm, halfhearted commitment. Jesus, Help me.
Nehemiah 11:2 The people commended all who volunteered to live in Jerusalem.
Lord, Thank You for this day and this scripture. Thank You for the reminder that my attitude, my effort, my heart for You is vitally important in my day-to-day. I don’t want to make a tepid “I’ll try” commitment to You. I want to be all in, trusting You, praising You, working for You, with You, and through Your strength. Always. Help me, Lord. Amen.
Nehemiah 11:25 As for the villages with their fields, some of the people of Judah lived in Kiribati Arba and its surrounding settlements, in Dibon and its settlements, in Jekabzeel and its villages….
Have a blessed day.