Take Care Of Both The Physical And Spiritual Well-being
(Yvonne Chia, Pastoral Team Member, Wesley GYM)
READ:
Nehemiah 7:1-3 (NLT) – After the wall was finished and I had set up the doors in the gates, the gatekeepers, singers, and Levites were appointed. I gave the responsibility of governing Jerusalem to my brother Hanani, along with Hananiah, the commander of the fortress, for he was a faithful man who feared God more than most. I said to them, “Do not leave the gates open during the hottest part of the day. And even while the gatekeepers are on duty, have them shut and bar the doors. Appoint the residents of Jerusalem to act as guards, everyone on a regular watch. Some will serve at sentry posts and some in front of their own homes.”
OBSERVE:
After the wall was rebuilt, Nehemiah installed the doors and appointed the security guards, singers and the Levites. He put his brother Hanani along with Hananiah, the captain of the citadel, in charge of Jerusalem because they were honest men and feared God more than most.
Nehemiah gave the order: “Do not open the gates of Jerusalem until the sun is up. And shut and bar the gates whilst the guards are on duty. Appoint the guards from the citizens of Jerusalem and assign them the posts in front of their own homes.”
APPLY
(Notes taken from Life Application Bible)
- When appointing men for leadership positions, integrity and the fear of God are important key character traits that qualify for positions of leadership. Look for Integrity and Reverence for God as TWO of the most important qualifications. Although other qualities may seem more impressive, Integrity and Reverence for God will always pass the test of time.
- Do not be complacent and be tempted to let my guard down to rest on my past accomplishments after I have completed a big task. I must continue to serve and take care of all that God has entrusted to me. Following through after a project is completed is as vital as doing the project itself.
DO
As I continue to serve as a disciple of Christ, I must take care of both my physical and spiritual well-being. Do regular physical and spiritual health checks to guard against a complacent lifestyle which may bring about destruction.
PRAY
Lord Jesus, my Saviour and Healer, forgive me for the times that I ignored the “signs” to take care of my body, which is Your “temple” thereby allowing its “walls” to deteriorate. I pray for Your redeeming love to heal and restore it. Help me to be always mindful of Your presence and to take time to learn to rest and luxuriate in Your Presence instead of rushing into the “doing”. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
