Walk Humbly With God
(James Tan, Facilitator, Companions in Christ, Discipleship & Nurture)
READ:
Nehemiah 10 and Psalm 25 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
After years of decadence and exile, the Israelites finally returned to their land. They had rebuilt the Jerusalem city wall in the preceding chapters.
In Nehemiah 10, the people were repentant and decided to follow God and take His law seriously. They renewed their vows and made a covenant with God. The covenant had principles that affect their relationship (v30), their time (v31), their money and resources (v32-39).
In Psalm 25, I see that those who stand on God’s side will receive His love, mercy, goodness and protection. God will guide them and teach them His ways.
APPLY
Today’s readings reminded me of my own baptism and membership vows. Frankly, I have totally forgotten the exact words of my vows. So, I looked them up. Among other things, I have promised to be faithful and to live a life by words and deeds that reflects Christ’s presence in the world. I have also promised to uphold our church by my prayers, presence, gifts, and service. It’s not easy to keep to these promises, especially the part about living a Christlike life, when worldly temptations and distractions abound. When times are good or when I am too busy, I tend to forget the vows that I made more than twenty years ago. Thankfully, God has promised that He will guide and teach me (Psalm 25:8-10). What I need to do is to walk humbly with Him, put my trust in Him and be obedient (Psalm 25:14).
DO
It is not possible for me with my human strength to live up fully to my baptism and membership vows. I am really in need of God’s help, and He has promised that He will help. I need to walk humbly with God, surrendering my all to Him.
God has promised that as I draw near to Him, He will draw near to me. As such, I will spend more time to practise the spiritual disciplines, so that I can hear Him more clearly and to obey His commandments.
I will look for opportunities to serve in church as God directs me.
PRAY
Dear God,
Thank you for reminding me of my vows. I want to keep to my promise and ask you for your strength for me to live up to them.
Help me to make time and have the will to be with you more regularly. Give me the energy and resources for me to serve you and the people around me. Teach me in all your ways and help me to be an obedient disciple of Christ. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
