Nehemiah 13:1-9Nehemiah cracks down in this passage on those who stood against him when he was trying to rebuild. He makes sure there is a consequence to those leaders who would not listen or were trying to openly oppose them. He quite literally throws out their things. He also has the rooms purified! This was a special place, an important place. While reading this, I asked the question, "Who is i...  Read More

Main Point and Overview:   Just because you’re living for God now does not mean that you will be living for God tomorrow! Let that resonate in your mind for a minute. Nehemiah learned this lesson the hard way with the people he was attempting to lead. Nehemiah had returned to Babylon, most likely summoned back to his role as Cupbearer to the King. His work was complete. The walls were restored, an...  Read More

Nehemiah 12:27-47  I enjoyed reading about the joyful celebration of the dedication ceremony, which, as verse 27 describes, was filled with “songs of thanksgiving and with the music of cymbals, harps and lyres.” To summarize the remainder of today’s passage, the Levites were called to lead the service and first went through acts of purification. Then, 2 groups of choirs and musicians were organize...  Read More

1 Corinthians 9:14I think if you were to poll pastors on what is the most controversial (if not difficult) topic to preach on, it would be on giving (tithing). Why? Because it is about money. Tithing, or a tenth, goes back to the book of Genesis when Abraham gives a tithe to Melchizedek as a way of expressing thanks to God for a victory. This became part of the Mosaic law. The New Testament does n...  Read More

John 12:1-8 As a parent, it's interesting to me to sit back and watch Paisley do things by herself. I often wonder why in the world she is doing that, but the same is true for anyone. Have you ever wondered that not just from your kids, but from strangers out in public or even family members?  I always love reading today's Bible story, here you have Jesus and his disciples eating dinner with Lazar...  Read More

Nehemiah 12:44-47Praise the Lord for our leadership at Emmanuel! Until I was on staff, I did not fully grasp how much our pastors take on. Sitting in staff meetings, I am able to hear some of the day to day things that are on their plates. I’ll tell you it’s far more than just preparing and delivering a sermon on Sunday mornings. The pastor, as the shepherd of his flock, tends to the needs of his ...  Read More