August 29, 2018
Nehemiah 8:5-6
Ezra opened the book. All the people could see him because he was standing above them; and as he opened it, the people all stood up.  Ezra praised the Lord, the great God; and all the people lifted their hands and responded, “Amen! Amen!” Then they bowed down and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground.
New International Version (NIV)
                What is revival really?  In my experience it begins with God’s people praying, by listening to his word and responding with open hearts.  Then it results in action.

                Nehemiah’s story shows us a similar pattern.  Remember how he prayed with tears and fasting for his people.  God spoke to him and he obeyed returning to Jerusalem.  Once there they rebuilt the wall.  But the great need of the people of God has never finally been about architecture alone.  So Ezra came and read God’s word.  Notice the people’s response:  they stood up and then they knelt down.

                It is true that we can pray from most any posture.  I remember a distinguished meeting of Christians in our state in which great pastors preached.  Then a street evangelist walked up on the platform and fell facedown for a period of time before he preached.  We heard God through him that day. 

                What are we waiting for?  Stand up friends.  God is speaking through his word.  Fall down.  His voice calls us to rejoicing and reverence.  Revival results in worship of God or it is not revival at all.  
Pray with me:  
Father, thank you for speaking to us by your Spirit through your word.  Let us not quench your Spirit or grieve your Spirit today.  You have been so, so good to us.  Speak Lord, your servants are listening, sometimes on our tiptoes and sometimes on our knees.  We need a word from you today so that we may obey.  In Jesus’ name.  Amen.   
  This year we focus our Every Day with Jesus readings on Jesus’ story.  With references to Tallowood's Read Through the Bible in 2018 daily reading plan, let's focus our undivided attention on Jesus and follow where he lead. He will not fail. Neither will we!
 
Joyfully, 
 
Duane 
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