The people gathered together to listen to the reading of scriptures by Ezra the priest. However, not everyone could understand or appreciate what they heard. Thirteen Levites “helped the people to understand the Law… they gave the sense, so that the people understood the message.” Each Levite gathered a group of people to explain the meaning of the scriptures to. In such groups, there would have been opportunity to discuss questions and make clarifications so that the people could understand the key sense of the scriptures and what it meant for them in their time.
“For all the people wept as they heard the Law. … And all the people went their way to eat and drink and to send portions and to make great rejoicing, because they had understood the words that were declared to them.” The people took the teaching of the scriptures into their lives. There were moments of disappointment when they felt they had done what they should not. But that was overtaken by a deeper sense of excitement and rejoicing in the greatness of their God. And there were also responses to the needs of others in the sending of “portions (of food and drink) to anyone who has nothing ready.”
Understanding what the scriptures mean in our lives can lead to a positive impact. It can show us areas in our lives where we have erred, but, more importantly, it spotlights more clearly the greatness of God and his care and direction in our lives. It also helps us to recognize and respond to those in need of help. While listening to the teaching and preaching of the scriptures is essential, one good way to understand the meaning of the scriptures in our lives is to learn to reflect on the scriptures with a group of fellow believers.
Written by Mr. Ajit Hazra
Questions
For Personal Reflection or Group Discussion
- As you read the whole of Nehemiah 8, make a list of what happens when God’s people read and study God’s Word. Include references to specific verses.
- Take time to ponder your list. What does it make you think? What does it make you pray?
- It is good to repent and to weep when we read God’s Word. But at this point the leaders tell the people not to grieve but to rejoice—for “the joy of the Lord is your strength” (8:10). What can you learn about this wonderful verse from its context in the chapter and the book? How might you testify to the truth of this verse in your own life?
Sermon
Preacher: Mr Lyndon Gan
Series: Band Together
Topic: Renewing the Power of God’s Word as We Band Together
Verses: Nehemiah 8: 1 – 18
The sermon will be livestreamed at the 10am English Service on Sunday, 7 April 2024.
Read the other devotionals in our Nehemiah sermon series.
