After establishing the people's genealogical purity, Nehemiah had Ezra the priest read the Law of Moses. The first day of the seventh month was the beginning of the Jewish holiday to celebrate God's creation of the world. It was significant to have men, women, and children to assemble to hear the word of God during this festival (2).

Ezra stood on a wooden podium facing the assembly. As he spoke, the people shouted, 'Amen! Amen!' and worshiped the LORD. The Levites were there to help them understand the meaning of the Law (8). It continued from early morning to mid-day and people listened attentively (3).

When the people heard the Law, people started weeping. They must have been remorseful to find themselves in sin, falling far from the holy Lord. Nehemiah encouraged the people not to grieve but to find their strength in the joy of the LORD (10). It was time to celebrate the new understanding of the word they received by the grace of the LORD (12). Despite their sin and inequity, they had a reason to rejoice when they realized the grace of the LORD.


Application: Father, thank you for helping me find a joy in your words. I find my life and hope in your word. Help me to preach your word to those who are thirsty and help them to understand. Help us to celebrate and rejoice in your grace.
One Word: I find my strength in your word.