The Fear Of The Lord Is The Beginning Of Wisdom
BRD REFLECTIONS:
Nehemiah 4 and Psalm 111 (NIV)
(Chan Say Tee, Member, Mandarin Ministry)
READ:
Nehemiah 4:4 – “Hear us, our God, for we are despised. Turn their insults back on their own heads. Give them over as plunder in a land of captivity.”
Nehemiah 4:9 – “But we prayed to our God and posted a guard day and night to meet this threat.”
Psalm 111:3 – “Glorious and majestic are his deeds, and his righteousness endures forever.”
Psalm 111:10 – “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise.”
OBSERVE:
Nehemiah 4 records how Nehemiah and his followers sought God’s protection through prayers and took practical measures to guard against enemy attacks to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. This chapter illustrates how Nehemiah and his people relied on God in times of trouble while also taking active steps to overcome obstacles, demonstrating the importance of combining faith with action.
Psalm 111 acknowledges and praises God for His greatness, righteousness and faithfulness. When we obey (“fear”) and follow God, we know what is good and right (“wisdom”)!
APPLY:
Looking back now after retiring from my job , I firmly believe that God has always been present and guiding me during my career. In difficult work situations, I experienced regrets and disappointments when I acted hastily on my own. When I humbled myself and prayed to God for His grace and guidance to overcome work hurdles, the outcomes were definitely better!
Like Nehemiah and his people, I will remember that action must go hand in hand with faith. I need to constantly seek God’s leading and approval to guide my decisions and actions or to overcome difficulties.
DO:
1. I will obey God’s commands and seek wisdom through regular reading of His Word.
2. In facing challenges, I will actively respond through action combined with faith. I will seek His help and guidance through prayer.
3. I will praise God with a grateful and reverent heart, acknowledging His greatness and sovereignty.
PRAY:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the precious lessons learnt through Nehemiah 4 and Psalm 111. I praise You for your greatness and faithfulness. Please grant me strength and wisdom to always seek Your righteous path and to glorify Your holy name.
In Jesus name I pray, Amen!
