When the people heard and understood the teachings of the Law of Moses, they also realized they were not observing it in their lives. In response, they developed a written covenant (or, an agreement) which stipulated specifically how they would follow the Law of Moses. It covered the key areas of their life and practice: family life (marriage of their children) commercial aspects (not doing business on the Sabbath), care for creation (leaving the land to fallow until the seventh year), social responsibility (cancellation of debt), remembering God in daily life (dedicating to God the first fruits, firstborn sons, oil, wine, cattle), money management (giving tithes), religious service (ensure the running of the temple). By developing this written covenant, the people were articulating what following the Lord would mean in their life.
The Methodist Church observes a Covenant Service, usually on the first Sunday of the year, where the congregation affirms their commitment to God and a willingness to follow Christ wholeheartedly, regardless of circumstances and consequences.
It will also be helpful for each individual Christian to think through, in practical and specific ways, what our commitment to God and following Christ will mean in our life context. We can set aside some time, for example, at the end or beginning of the year, to review the various areas of our life and identify specific actions or goals we want to fulfill as an expression of our commitment to the Lord. This can encompass the various areas of our life, including our personal life, family life, social relationships, social responsibility, money management and religious service. Doing this in written form is both a helpful reminder as well as a record that we can review and revise as our context and circumstances change.
Written by Mr. Ajit Hazra
Questions
For Personal Reflection or Group Discussion
- Having experienced the power of God at work, heard the word of God, and moved to confess our sins before the faithful God, why is it necessary to make a binding commitment to God?
- What is the dominant influence that has shaped your operating perspective in life? What does the Word of God say about being unequally yoked in marriage and in business partnerships? Reflect and share if you struggle to keep your commitment to holiness. Pray with each other.
- Are you committed to giving regularly and generously to the Church’s operating needs? Why is it necessary to give out of responsibility, gratitude, and trust? Share your joy or struggles in giving.
Sermon
Preacher: Rev Tay Kay Leong
Series: Band Together
Topic: Keeping Our Commitment as We Band Together
Verses: Nehemiah 10: 1 – 39
The sermon will be livestreamed at the 10am English Service on Sunday, 28 April 2024.
Read the other devotionals in our Nehemiah sermon series.
