“Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his

approval. Be a good worker…” 2 Timothy 2:15

As we are quickly coming to the end of 2019, we will look at three books to

drive home our church theme, “Living With Purpose.” In each book, there

is a pressing need from God and a call for His people to respond to the need

which will impact His people. Our first set of lessons will come from 2

Timothy where we see Paul’s ‘final’ letter to his mentee and spiritual son,

Timothy. In our lessons, Paul encourages Timothy to remain faithful in his

ministry of preaching and teaching God’s Word to God’s people. There will

be many false teachers and Timothy is called upon to preach and teach the

true gospel of Jesus Christ. With Paul believing his time is almost up on the

earth, he is depending on Timothy to continue what he has started.

In our next set of lessons, we will look at the Book of Nehemiah where

Nehemiah, a cupbearer for the king, hears of the terrible condition the walls

of Jerusalem are in. Nehemiah sets out to repair the walls to restore the

dignity of the city as well as provide protection against enemy troops.

Through prayer, faith, determination, Nehemiah is set to rally the people to

complete the task God placed in him, despite the opposition that comes

against him.

Our lessons close out with a look at the Book of Haggai where God’s

people are called to rebuild the House of God. For years, the temple

remained in ruin as the people worked to restore and improve their own

homes. God encourages the people to build, telling them that He is with

them.

Let’s read, study, pray and share together as God speaks to us so we can

remain busy for Him and live out our purpose.

Lessons:

September 1 “Saved for His Purpose” 2 Timothy 1: 3-9

September 8 “Faith and Endurance” 2 Timothy 2: 1-13

September 15 “An Approved Worker” 2 Timothy 2: 15-26

September 22 “Stay True to God’s Word” 2 Timothy 3: 1-17

September 29 “Be Faithful to the End” 2 Timothy 4: 1-8

October 6 “Nehemiah’s Prayer” Nehemiah 1: 1-11

October 13 “Nehemiah Granted Favor” Nehemiah 2: 1-9

October 20 “Assessing the Work” Nehemiah 2: 11-20

October 27 “Dealing with Opposition” Nehemiah 4: 1-15

November 3 “Things Coming Together” Nehemiah 6 & 7

November 10 “Celebrating God’s Word” Nehemiah 8: 1-12

November 17 “A Call to Build God’s House” Haggai 1: 2-15

November 24 “God Encourages His People” Haggai 2: 1-9

September 1, 2019 Lesson 1

“Saved for His Purpose”

2 Timothy 1: 2-9 (NKJV)

2 To Timothy, a beloved son:

Grace, mercy, and peace from

God the Father and Christ

Jesus our Lord.

3 I thank God, whom I serve

with a pure conscience, as my

forefathers did, as without

ceasing I remember you in my

prayers night and day,

4 greatly desiring to see you,

being mindful of your tears,

that I may be filled with joy,

5 when I call to remembrance

the genuine faith that is in

you, which dwelt first in your

grandmother Lois and your

mother Eunice, and I am

persuaded is in you also.

6 Therefore I remind you to

stir up the gift of God which

is in you through the laying

on of my hands.

7 For God has not given us a

spirit of fear, but of power and

of love and of a sound mind.

8 Therefore do not be ashamed

of the testimony of our Lord,

nor of me His prisoner, but

share with me in the

sufferings for the gospel

according to the power of

God,

9 who has saved us and

called us with a holy calling,

not according to our works,

but according to His own

purpose and grace which

was given to us in Christ

Jesus before time began

Commentary:

The relationship between Paul and Timothy is one of mentorship.

Timothy is first mentioned in Acts 16:1. His mother Eunice, and his

grandmother, Lois, served as Timothy’s first teachers of the

Christian faith. All that is known of his father was that he was a

Greek.

During Paul's second visit to Lystra is when Timothy first connected

with Paul. Paul not only brought Timothy into the faith but was

Timothy’s main mentor in Christian leadership, having done church

planting and taking missionary journeys together. Timothy is

affectionately addressed as Paul’s spiritual son to show the deep love

and bond between the two, which was further strengthened by their

extensive fellowship in the work of God. It was Paul who

commissioned and gave Timothy authority to preach and serve as an

evangelist. Timothy had ministered alongside Paul for the duration

of both the second and third missionary journeys. By the time Paul

wrote his second letter to Timothy, the young pastor had been

ministering to the church at Ephesus for four years. Timothy was not

unfamiliar to the Ephesians when he settled in Ephesus to minister,

as he served there alongside Paul for a period of close to three years

during Paul’s third missionary journey. Paul wrote to Timothy, a

second time, to provide him encouragement and courage in the face

of trials and tribulations.

In this second letter of Timothy, one finds Paul at the end of his life;

right before his death. He begins the letter by expressing his love and

adoration for his spiritual son by saying how he thanks God for him

and how he constantly keeps him in his prayers. Paul understood that

the ministry would become more difficult for Timothy, particularly

after his death and so he writes Timothy to encourage him to remain

faithful and carry on the mission of the church. Paul tells him that he

longs to see him again, with hopes that Timothy would come and see

him as he is in prison writing this letter.

Paul encourages Timothy to share his faith; the same teaching he

learned from his mother Eunice and grandmother Lois as well as

from Paul himself. Timothy’s sincere faith shaped first by his mother

and grandmother and later from Paul. With this, Paul tells him to

“stir up the gift”, “fan into flames”, make full use of the gift God

gave to you through the laying on of my hands. The Greek word

used here in verse 6 is “anazopyreo” which combines two Greek

words, ana (again) and zopyreo (to stir up a fire). Paul is telling

Timothy to be active in using his gift as an evangelist in sharing his

faith to others.

Paul reminded Timothy that he was commissioned and appointed for

a special task of sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ and how proud he

was that his own hands were used to lay on Timothy. In the Old

Testament, Moses laid his hands on Joshua to commission him as

next leader of the Israelites. In the New Testament, the apostles laid

hands on people to heal and deliver them, to impart the Holy Spirit

on them, and to ordain them for a particular work. Paul had the honor

and privilege to lay his own hands on his spiritual son for the task of

evangelist.

Paul tells Timothy that God does not give us a spirit of fear and

cowardice but of power, love and self-discipline. The Greek word for

power is “dynamis”, from which we get our word dynamite. This

speaks of a special kind of power; the ability to do or to accomplish a

task. God equips us with power to equip us for the work He calls us

for.

In addition to power, Paul says we are given a spirit of love. This

love is called Agape. This love is more about “doing” than a

“feeling” word. It doesn’t require that we approve of the actions of

the person whom we love or even that we enjoy their company.

Rather, it is about acting on behalf of a person and demonstrating our

love in a practical way as in feeding the hungry, clothing the naked

and visiting the sick.

Paul told Timothy to not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord

nor of me His prisoner, but share with me in the sufferings for the

gospel according to the power of God. We should never be ashamed

to share God’s Word nor live out God’s Word in our lives. Paul

himself is a prisoner for preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. He

calls for Timothy to be faithful in his calling despite what should

happened to him as God will take care of him.

Our lesson ends with Paul reminding Timothy that it was God who

chose and saved us to live a holy life. There was nothing we did to

deserve it; nothing we can do to earn it, but all by God’s grace are

we saved. We are saved and brought into His holiness through the

love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. This is why we are to remain

faithful to Christ and stay committed to our purpose in Him.

Questions:

1. Who were the people who first taught you about Jesus?

Who had an influential part in your Christian foundation?

Whose lives are you impacting now in their Christian faith?

2. In verse 3, Paul says he prays for Timothy night and day. To

whom do you pray for? Why and for what reason?

3. What did Paul mean when he told Timothy to “stir up the

gift of God which is in you?” How might we use apply

this principle in our own lives?

4. Paul said that God did not give us a spirit of fear but a spirit

of three things. What were they? How would you explain

those three things as you serve God?

5. Have you ever shared in suffering for the Gospel? Explain

6. Are you living out your calling to which God created you

for; living out His own purpose? Explain.

Daily Readings:

Monday, September 2, Luke 16: 1-12

Tuesday, September 3, Ephesians 6: 10-18

Wednesday, September 4, James 1: 2-12

Thursday, September 5, 1 Peter 5: 1-11

Friday, September 6, 2 Timothy 1: 10-18

Saturday, September 7, Reflections

Sunday, September 8, 2 Timothy 2: 1-13

September 8, 2019 Lesson 2

“Faith and Endurance”

2 Timothy 2: 1-13 (NLT)

1 Timothy, my dear son, be

strong through the grace that

God gives you in Christ Jesus.

2 You have heard me teach

things that have been

confirmed by many reliable

witnesses. Now teach these

truths to other trustworthy

people who will be able to

pass them on to others.

3 Endure suffering along with

me, as a good soldier of Christ

Jesus.

4 Soldiers don’t get tied up in

the affairs of civilian life, for

then they cannot please the

officer who enlisted them.

5 And athletes cannot win the

prize unless they follow the

rules.

6 And hardworking farmers

should be the first to enjoy the

fruit of their labor.

7 Think about what I am

saying. The Lord will help

you understand all these

things.

8 Always remember that Jesus

Christ, a descendant of King

David, was raised from the

dead. This is the Good News I

preach.

9 And because I preach this

Good News, I am suffering

and have been chained like a

criminal. But the word of God

cannot be chained.

10 So I am willing to endure

anything if it will bring

salvation and eternal glory in

Christ Jesus to those God has

chosen.

11 This is a trustworthy

saying: If we die with him,

we will also live with him.

12 If we endure hardship, we

will reign with him. If we

deny him, he will deny us.

13 If we are unfaithful, he

remains faithful, for he cannot

deny who he is.

Commentary:

In chapter 1, Paul told Timothy to not be ashamed to tell others about

the Lord (v.8) for it is the gospel that changed and transformed our

lives. Here in Chapter 2, Paul continues that message by saying to

Timothy to be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus and be bold

in sharing the gospel message. The key words there are, “in and

through the grace of Jesus.” We cannot muster up strength and

courage on our own to handle all the difficulties and challenges the

enemy will throw our way as we share the gospel to others. But Jesus

extends to us His Grace in which we can lean on for strength. God’s

grace will sustain us and give us strength and power to face all

hardships.

Paul reminds Timothy to teach the Gospel message; the Truth, just as

he received from Paul. In those days, there were false teachings

going on in Ephesus. It was important that Timothy protect the true

message and pass it on to those who were trustworthy and reliable.

Share the message and teach those who will not alter the Gospel

message but preserve the TRUE message of Jesus Christ.

In verses 3-7, Paul uses three illustrations to drive home his point on

endurance and remaining faithful. Paul talks about a soldier, an

athlete, and a farmer. In all three, each involve “waiting” to yield

positive results: waiting to win the battle, waiting to receive the

prize, and waiting to harvest crops. Furthermore, each of the three

are willing to stay devoted to their task, endure hardships to receive

and accomplish their ultimate goal. A soldier fights out of their

devotion for their officer. An athlete trains and runs to win the race

and win the prize. A farmer plants and sows hard to reap a bountiful

harvest. This should hold true for a believer. Paul reminds Timothy

to endure the sufferings and hardships for the sake of the Gospel as

the Gospel is worthy of the sacrifice.

We are to endure all the adversities and tribulations because there is

more to this life than we currently see. Yes, things may appear to be

chaotic in our world today. But ultimately, we know that God is in

control and one day we will be with Him. Paul said in verse 10 that

he is willing to endure anything if it will bring salvation and eternal

glory in Christ Jesus. He continues in verse 12 by saying that if we

endure hardship here on earth, we will reign with Him. Despite how

it may look now, in the end, and for that matter, even now, we not

only win, but are winning now. Christ is forever with us.

Questions:

1. What does it mean to be strong in the grace of God?

2. Paul taught Timothy and is now encouraging Timothy to

find “trustworthy” people to teach and pour into. How was

the Gospel entrusted to you? How are you entrusting the

Gospel to others?

3. Do you believe the Gospel is worth sacrificing for? If yes,

how might your life look different?

4. What is God calling you to ‘surrender’ (like a soldier,

athlete, and farmer) for the greater good of the Gospel?

5. How does the promise of “reigning with Christ” encourage

us to hold on and be faithful?

Daily Readings:

Monday, September 9, Hebrews 5: 12-14

Tuesday, September 10, 2 Peter 2: 1-11

Wednesday, September 11, 2 Peter 2: 12-22

Thursday, September 12, 1 Corinthians 3: 1-16

Friday, September 13, Titus 1: 5-16

Saturday, September 14, Reflections

Sunday, September 15, 2 Timothy 2: 15-26

September 15, 2019 Lesson 3

“An Approved Worker”

2 Timothy 2: 15-26 (NLT)

15 Work hard so you can

present yourself to God and

receive his approval. Be a

good worker, one who does

not need to be ashamed and

who correctly explains the

word of truth. 16 Avoid worthless, foolish

talk that only leads to more

godless behavior. 17 This kind of talk spreads

like cancer, as in the case of

Hymenaeus and Philetus. 18 They have left the path of

truth, claiming that the

resurrection of the dead has

already occurred; in this way,

they have turned some people

away from the faith. 19 But God’s truth stands firm

like a foundation stone with

this inscription: “The Lord

knows those who are his,” and

“All who belong to the Lord

must turn away from evil.” 20 In a wealthy home some

utensils are made of gold and

silver, and some are made of

wood and clay. The expensive

utensils are used for special

occasions, and the cheap ones

are for everyday use.

21 If you keep yourself pure,

you will be a special utensil

for honorable use. Your life

will be clean, and you will be

ready for the Master to use

you for every good work. 22 Run from anything that

stimulates youthful lusts.

Instead, pursue righteous

living, faithfulness, love, and

peace. Enjoy the

companionship of those who

call on the Lord with pure

hearts. 23 Again I say, don’t get

involved in foolish, ignorant

arguments that only start

fights. 24 A servant of the Lord must

not quarrel but must be kind

to everyone, be able to teach,

and be patient with difficult

people. 25 Gently instruct those who

oppose the truth. Perhaps God

will change those people’s

hearts, and they will learn the

truth. 26 Then they will come to their

senses and escape from the

devil’s trap. For they have

been held captive by him to

do whatever he wants.

Commentary:

Paul begins this lesson by calling on Timothy to make a commitment

to correctly handle and explain the Word of God. Paul knew that

many would lend various interpretations to the Scriptures thus

leading to churches and congregations not knowing what the True

Message of God. Paul wanted Timothy to dig deeper in his study so

that he would be effective in his preaching and teaching. If we stay

focus and committed to learning and growing in God’s Word for

understanding, we would be less likely to engage in what Paul calls,

“worthless, foolish and profane talk.” This is talking and teaching

from which we do not really understand which leads to chaos,

confusion and godless behavior in the body.

In verse 17, Paul speaks of Hymenaeus and Philetus, two men who

were doing most serious injury to the church by their teaching. They

denied the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ and taught that all

Scriptural references to the resurrection was either figurative or

metaphoric. They stated that Christ had not risen from the dead, nor

would there be a day when the dead would hear the voice of Christ

and come forth out of the grave. Their teaching caused many to lose

faith in Christ as there was nothing to believe in; no living Savior, no

future with Him. Paul called there teaching, “cancerous” to the

church. Paul ends this section by saying, “God’s truth stands firm

like a foundation stone with this inscription: “The Lord knows those

who are his,” and “All who belong to the Lord must turn away from

evil.”

This gives way to verse 20 and 21 where Paul speaks of various

utensils and compares believers as God’s special utensils for His

usage. He said that there are utensils made of valuable materials,

some made of wood, and others from cheap material for everyday

usage. We, God’s people, are special and should keep our lives pure

and holy; ready for the Master to use us for every good work.

Ephesians 2:10 reminds us that we are his workmanship, created in

Christ Jesus for good works.

Paul warns Timothy to keep distance from “youthful” lusts and

desires. We are to be on guard against the corruptions that are

lurking from the outside. Instead, we to seek righteousness,

faithfulness, love, and peace. Seek righteousness, living “right” with

God. Seek faithfulness, stay committed to live out God’s Word. Seek

love and peace, how we live among others in this world.

Paul ends this lesson by saying that a servant of the Lord must not

fight and quarrel, but be kind to everyone. They must be able to

teach and be patient with difficult people. Here, as he is addressing

Timothy, Paul also addresses pastors, teachers and church leaders. In

how we teach, preach and minister to others, we are to do it in a way

that is warm, gentle, inviting and soft. We are to imitate Jesus whom

the crowds loved to follow because of His message and mannerism.

He was gentle enough that children came up to Him. God’s servants,

ministers and teachers, should not be mean, bitter, harsh, cruel and

impatient in their demeanor, rather caring and patient even to those

who are difficult. We are Christ’s ambassadors and are to be His

lights for others to see Him.

Questions:

1. Why is it important for a believer to correctly explain the

word of truth (rightly handle the Word of Truth)?

What steps have you made; are you making, to have a better

understanding and knowledge of God’s Word?

2. According to verses 20 & 21, what determines whether or

not a vessel is honorable; special? What must one do

to be honorable?

3. Give some examples of “youthful lusts” we should run from.

What things should we pursue, according to verse 22?

4. What traits and qualities should a servant; a teacher of the

Lord have according to verse 24-25? Explain the

importance of these qualities.

Daily Readings:

Monday, September 16, 1 John 2: 15-23

Tuesday, September 17, Revelation 13: 1-18

Wednesday, September 18, Matthew 5: 10-12

Thursday, September 19, Psalm 19: 7-14

Friday, September 20, 2 Timothy 3: 1-5

Saturday, September 21 – Reflections

Sunday, September 22, 2 Timothy 3: 10-17

September 22, 2019 Lesson 4

“Stay True to God’s Word”

2 Timothy 3: 1-5; 10-17 (NLT)

1 Remember this: There are

some terrible times coming in

the last days.

2 People will love only

themselves and money. They

will be proud and boast about

themselves. They will abuse

others with insults. They will

not obey their parents. They

will be ungrateful and against

all that is pleasing to God.

3 They will have no love for

others and will refuse to

forgive anyone. They will talk

about others to hurt them and

will have no self-control.

They will be cruel and hate

what is good.

4 People will turn against their

friends. They will do foolish

things without thinking and

will be so proud of

themselves. Instead of loving

God, they will love pleasure.

5 They will go on pretending

to be devoted to God, but they

will refuse to let that

“devotion” change the way

they live. Stay away from

these people!

10 But you know all about me.

You know what I teach and

the way I live. You know my

goal in life. You know my

faith, my patience, and my

love. You know that I never

stop trying.

11 You know about my

persecutions and my

sufferings. You know all the

things that happened to me in

Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra;

the persecution I suffered in

those places. But the Lord

saved me from all of it.

12 Everyone who wants to live

showing true devotion to God

in Christ Jesus will be

persecuted.

13 People who are evil and

cheat others will become

worse and worse. They will

fool others, but they will also

be fooling themselves.

14 But you should continue

following the teaching you

learned. You know it is true,

because you know you can

trust those who taught you.

15 You have known the Holy

Scriptures since you were a

child. These Scriptures are

able to make you wise. And

that wisdom leads to salvation

through faith in Christ Jesus.

16 All Scripture is given by

God. And all Scripture is

useful for teaching and for

showing people what is

wrong in their lives. It is

useful for correcting faults

and teaching the right way

to live.

17 Using the Scriptures, those

who serve God will be

prepared and will have

everything they need to do

every good work.

Commentary:

Here in chapter 3, Paul warns Timothy of the troubled times that will

occur in the last days; the days of the Messiah, the last days of the

world. In verses 2-5, Paul addresses not only those in the world, but

those who claim to be believers of Christ. He said they shall be

lovers of their selves, selfish and not care for the welfare of others.

They shall seek to get rich and pursue riches of the world. They will

value themselves over others and puff themselves with pride. They

will be disobedient to their parents and show no love or forgiveness

to others. Furthermore, they will have no heart towards God and

show Him no reverence. Paul warns Timothy, as well as true

believers, to stay away from such people and behavior.

After warning Timothy on how some who are posing as Christians

will reveal their hypocrisy in the last days, Paul encourages Timothy

to follow his example in living a life for Christ. He tells Timothy to

remember the lessons he taught him; remember the things he saw

Paul do; and remember Paul’s ultimate goal in his life which was to

live for Jesus. If Timothy follow these lessons and examples, he too

will live a godly life in Jesus Christ.

Paul also encourages Timothy to be faithful despite the persecution

he will face. Paul mentions his own persecutions. But in doing so he

also said nothing happened to him that all believers should not

expect. Righteous believers will suffer at the hands of evil people.

Paul says to expect it as all who desire to live a godly life in Christ

Jesus will be persecuted while evil people and impostors will go on

from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.

Paul reassures Timothy that though false teachers may appear to

prosper, we are to still press on and stand firm as God will forever be

with us. False teachers were misinterpreting the Old Testament.

Therefore, Timothy was to continue following the teaching he

learned as a child and stay in Word.

Paul reminded Timothy how he was taught since a child of the true

gospel as well as the Old Testament. It is his time to teach the

inspired Word of God. It is through the Holy Scriptures that we make

us wise and leads us to salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. All

Scripture is given by God and is useful for teaching showing people

what is wrong in their lives. The scripture corrects our faults and

teaches us the right way to live. For all God’s servants who use the

Scriptures, will have everything they need to do every good work.

Questions:

1. In verses 1-5, Paul describes what will take place in the last

days. List the characteristics of the people in the last days.

What is Paul commanding true believers to do regarding

such behavior?

2. What does Paul say in verse 12? How does this make

you feel as a believer? Have you seen any form of

persecution as a believer before? Share

3. What should Timothy do, knowing that he would be

persecuted (verse 14)? How can we use this to

apply in our lives?

4. What are the various uses of the Scripture (verse 16)?

5. What is the benefit in using the Scripture (verse 17)?

Why then is it important for believers; God’s servants to

know the Scriptures?

Daily Readings:

Monday, September 23, Jonah 3: 1-10

Tuesday, September 24, Romans 10: 6-17

Wednesday, September 25, 2 Peter 2: 1-3

Thursday, September 26, Ezekiel 33: 1-9

Friday, September 27, Philippians 3: 12-14

Saturday, September 28, Reflections

Sunday, September 29, 2 Timothy 4: 1-8

September 29, 2019 Lesson 5

“Stay Faithful to the End”

2 Timothy 4: 1-8 (NLT)

1 I charge you therefore before

God and the Lord Jesus

Christ, who will judge the

living and the dead at His

appearing and His kingdom:

2 Preach the word! Be ready in

season and out of season.

Convince, rebuke, exhort,

with all longsuffering and

teaching.

3 For the time will come when

they will not endure sound

doctrine, but according to

their own desires, because

they have itching ears, they

will heap up for themselves

teachers;

4 and they will turn their ears

away from the truth, and be

turned aside to fables.

5 But you be watchful in all

things, endure afflictions, do

the work of an evangelist,

fulfill your ministry.

6 For I am already being

poured out as a drink offering,

and the time of my departure

is at hand.

7 I have fought the good

fight, I have finished the

race, I have kept the faith.

8 Finally, there is laid up for

me the crown of

righteousness, which the

Lord, the righteous Judge,

will give to me on that Day,

and not to me only but also

to all who have loved His

appearing.

Commentary:

As Paul begins closing out this letter to Timothy, he offers to his

‘son’ a charge to be faithful in his work for Christ. If Timothy is to

be a godly leader and pastor for Christ, Paul charged him to remain

true and real in his ministry before God, the great judge. In all that

we do, we all will stand before God who will judge us all. We are to

be real in our witness, live so others can see Christ in us, as one day

Jesus Himself will return and only those who remain faithful to Him

shall be with Him.

Paul charged Timothy to Preach the Word. As a minister of the

gospel of Jesus Christ, it is necessary for Timothy to preach the

Gospel. Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 9:16, “For when I preach the

gospel, I cannot boast, since I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if

I do not preach the gospel.” The key, according to Paul, is to preach

the Word; preach the gospel. Many preach stories, life experiences,

about themselves. However, to save the lost, revive hearts and

spirits, we are to preach the gospel. As Romans 10: 14 & 17 says,

“How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed?

And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard?

And how shall they hear without a preacher?... So faith, comes from

hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ.”

Paul charges Timothy to preach “in season and out of season.” This

means that you must be ready to share the word with someone at all

times; when it is easy to preach and when it appears hard to preach.

Further, Paul charges Timothy to preach so that the Word corrects

and encourages those who are listening. He was to hold up the Word

of God against the lives of his people and let God do His work.

Paul cautions Timothy that a time will come when people will no

longer listen and endure sound teaching. They will follow their own

desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their

“itching ears” want to hear. Here, Paul tells Timothy that as the

future unfolds, Christians will fall further away from the Gospel and

seek their own ideas and philosophies. People, in the church, will

seek to be entertained with stories, theories, rhetoric, flowery words

and phrases rather that the true Gospel of Jesus Christ. Many will

leave those who are preaching the Gospel, and run to those who

preach messages they want to hear that not necessarily leads to

salvation, correction, and deliverance.

Paul charges Timothy that in spite of others falling away for the

Gospel to “win” the hearts of the people, he is to remain faithful and

dedicated to what God wants him to do. Timothy was to be watchful

of all things, keep careful attention to the things going on around

him. Moreover, he was to endure afflictions that was bound to come

his way. When times get hard and difficult, when persecution comes

his way, Timothy was charged to remain steadfast in the Lord and

continue sharing and preaching the Gospel.

Our lesson ends with Paul sharing with Timothy how he is feeling as

he knows he is at the end of his life. He tells Timothy that his life is

already “being poured out as an offering to God.” Here, Paul views

himself as a vessel for God; his life and ministry being a sacrifice for

the Will of God to touch the lives of others. Though Paul faced many

threats, fears, persecutions and hardships, he remained faithful to

God; sharing, preaching, teaching and leading others to Christ. He

tells Timothy, “I fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I

have kept the faith. Now there is laid up for me the crown of

righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me.”

Paul said that this reward is not just for him, but to all who endure to

the end and awaits Christ’s appearing. James 1:12 reminds us that,

“God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation.

Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised

to those who love him.”

Questions:

1. What are the 5 commands Paul charged Timothy to do in

verse 2?

Why are each of these commands so important?

2. What does Paul warn will happen in verses 3-4?

Why does he say this will happen?

3. What does Paul mean by “itching ears”?

How do you see this in our society today? In your own

life?

4. In verse 6, Paul said he is, “already being poured out as a

drink offering.” What does this mean?

Do you see life as an offering to God? Why or why not?

5. In verse 8, Paul said that there is a crown of righteousness

the Lord will give to those who have love; longs for Christ’s

appearing. What does it mean to love; long for Christ’s

appearing?

How can you use this verse to motivate you in how you live?

Daily Reading:

Monday, September 30, Ezra 1

Tuesday, October 1, Ezra 2

Wednesday, October 2, Ezra 3 & 4

Thursday, October 3, Ezra 5

Friday, October 4, Ezra 6

Saturday, October 5, Reflection

Sunday, October 6, Nehemiah 1: 1-11

October 6, 2019 Lesson 6

“Nehemiah’s Prayer”

Nehemiah 1: 1-11 (NLT)

1 These are the memoirs of

Nehemiah son of Hacaliah. In

late autumn, in the month of

Kislev, in the twentieth year of

King Artaxerxes’ reign, I was at

the fortress of Susa. 2 Hanani, one of my brothers,

came to visit me with some

other men who had just arrived

from Judah. I asked them about

the Jews who had returned there

from captivity and about how

things were going in Jerusalem. 3 They said to me, “Things are

not going well for those who

returned to the province of

Judah. They are in great trouble

and disgrace. The wall of

Jerusalem has been torn down,

and the gates have been

destroyed by fire.” 4 When I heard this, I sat down

and wept. In fact, for days I

mourned, fasted, and prayed to

the God of heaven. 5 Then I said, “O Lord, God of

heaven, the great and awesome

God who keeps his covenant of

unfailing love with those who

love him and obey his

commands, 6 listen to my prayer! Look

down and see me praying night

and day for your people Israel. I

confess that we have sinned

against you. Yes, even my own

family and I have sinned!

7 We have sinned terribly by not

obeying the commands, decrees,

and regulations that you gave us

through your servant Moses.

8 “Please remember what you

told your servant Moses: ‘If you

are unfaithful to me, I will

scatter you among the nations. 9 But if you return to me and

obey my commands and live by

them, then even if you are

exiled to the ends of the earth, I

will bring you back to the place

I have chosen for my name to be

honored.’ 10 “The people you rescued by

your great power and strong

hand are your servants. 11 O Lord, please hear my

prayer! Listen to the prayers

of those of us who delight in

honoring you. Please grant me

success today by making the

king favorable to me. Put it

into his heart to be kind to

me.” In those days I was the

king’s cup-bearer.

.

Commentary:

In our lesson today, we see the Jewish people in a desperate state.

Their nations were destroyed; first Israel then Judah. The holy city of

Jerusalem was conquered by the Babylonians and the temple of

Solomon was destroyed. When the Babylonians came and sieged

Jerusalem, they took with them almost everyone from the city and

region, leaving Jerusalem like a ghost town. Many who were exiled

to Babylon began making homes for themselves. Some became so

settled in Babylon, they had no desire to return to Jerusalem; the land

God promised to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

After 70 years of captivity in Babylon, many of the Jews were given

the opportunity to return to their homeland, the Promised Land.

However, out of some two or three million Jews deported from the

land, only 50,000 decided to return to the Promised Land. Of the

ones who returned, during the days of Ezra, the people rebuilt the

temple and laid a spiritual foundation for Israel once again.

Here in Nehemiah, about 15 years after the Book of Ezra ends, 100

years after the first captives came back to the Promised Land; and

some 150 years after the city of Jerusalem was destroyed, we see that

the walls of the city of Jerusalem were still in rubble. In Ezra 4:6-23,

approximately 75 years prior to our story, there was an attempt to

rebuild the walls but plans failed through evil plans of their enemies.

The walls remained in ruin and the people stayed in trouble.

We are told that Nehemiah lived in Shushan, the capital city of the

Persians, in a fortress; a citadel. Right away, we can conclude that

Nehemiah is someone important; living in the palace of the king. His

brother Hanani comes for a visit from Judah and Nehemiah asked

how were things in Jerusalem. Though Nehemiah has a great

position with the Persians, his heart and concern were always on his

people and their homeland.

Nehemiah was told that things were not going well for those who

returned to the province of Judah. They are in great trouble and

disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem has been torn down, and the gates

have been destroyed by fire. During those days, city walls served as

great importance to a city. A city without walls was a city completely

open and vulnerable to its enemies. They had no defense and no

protection. Those living in an unwalled city lived in constant stress

and tension as they never knew when they might be attacked and

brutalized. Even with the temple being rebuilt, it would never be

considered beautiful as nothing of value could be placed inside as

would be taken away easily.

When Nehemiah heard this report on the condition of Jerusalem, he

wept, fasted, and prayed to God. God was going to use Nehemiah to

do something about this situation. But first, God did something in

Nehemiah. God touched the heart of Nehemiah to act and move on

behalf of His people. As David Guzik states in his commentary of

Nehemiah 1, “Any great work of God begins with God doing a great

work in somebody.” God prepared the long ago by placing

Nehemiah in an important position with a heart to first ask how the

people and city of Jerusalem was doing, and a heart to mourn and

move to meet the needs of Jerusalem.

Nehemiah took days, fasting and praying to God for a way to restore

the city of Jerusalem and the city walls. He knew the importance of

the walls to be built and wanted God to move and show him how to

get this done. Nehemiah did what all leaders should do first before

doing anything; preparing themselves by seeking God. In anything

we do, we will face opposition. Yet with God’s permission,

provision, assistance and guidance, we can face anything that comes

our way. Since the desire and compassion came from God, He just

needs a willing vessel to be used by Him to accomplish the need.

In his prayer, Nehemiah first, admitted and confessed that his people

did sin and turned away from the Lord. In verse 7 he prayed, “We

have sinned terribly by not obeying the commands you gave us

through your servant Moses.” Nehemiah understood why the people

were forced out as he stated a warning from God in verse 8 that ‘If

you are unfaithful to me, I will scatter you among the nations. But

then Nehemiah ‘reminded’ God of a promise the Lord made with His

people; ‘that if you return to me and obey my commands and live by

them, then even if you are exiled to the ends of the earth, I will bring

you back to the place I have chosen for my name to be honored.’

In verse 11, we get a peek at Nehemiah’s plan of going to the king of

Persia and asking for permission and assistance to return to

Jerusalem and start rebuilding the walls. Nehemiah was going to do

something about the sorry state of Jerusalem’s walls and people, and

he knows without God’s intervention, he can do nothing. Nehemiah

is a person of action and sought the Lord to open doors so that he

could make things better.

Questions:

1. What did Nehemiah ask his brother Hanani?

What was the condition of the Jews in Jerusalem?

2. How did Nehemiah react to the condition of his people;

condition of Jerusalem?

3. What are the needs of your family and community? Do their

condition(s) cause you to weep, fast and pray for those

needs? Is God laying on your heart to do something about it?

4. What do we learn about God from verses 5 and 6?

5. What leadership traits do you see in Nehemiah, from chapter

1?

6. How would you describe Nehemiah’s prayer; parts of his

prayer? How can we use his prayer to formulate our

prayers?

7. What is God calling you to do today to make a difference in

the lives of others?

Daily Readings:

Monday, October 7, Esther 1

Tuesday, October 8, Esther 2

Wednesday, October 9, Esther chapters 3&4

Thursday, October 10, Esther chapters 5&6

Friday, October 11, Esther chapters 7&8

Saturday, October 12, Reflections

Sunday, October 13, Nehemiah 2: 1-9

October 13, 2019 Lesson 7

“Nehemiah Granted Favor”

Nehemiah 2: 1-9 (NLT)

1 Early the following spring,

in the month of Nisan, during

the twentieth year of King

Artaxerxes’ reign, I was

serving the king his wine. I

had never before appeared sad

in his presence. 2 So the king asked me, “Why

are you looking so sad? You

don’t look sick to me. You

must be deeply troubled.”

Then I was terrified, 3 but I replied, “Long live the

king! How can I not be sad?

For the city where my

ancestors are buried is in

ruins, and the gates have been

destroyed by fire.” 4 The king asked, “Well, how

can I help you?” With a

prayer to the God of heaven, 5 I replied, “If it pleases the

king, and if you are pleased

with me, your servant, send

me to Judah to rebuild the city

where my ancestors are

buried.” 6 The king, with the queen

sitting beside him, asked,

“How long will you be gone?

When will you return?” After

I told him how long I would

be gone, the king agreed to

my request. 7 I also said to the king, “If it

pleases the king, let me have

letters addressed to the

governors of the province

west of the Euphrates River,

instructing them to let me

travel safely through their

territories on my way to

Judah. 8 And please give me a letter

addressed to Asaph, the

manager of the king’s forest,

instructing him to give me

timber. I will need it to

make beams for the gates of

the Temple fortress, for the

city walls, and for a house

for myself.” And the king

granted these requests,

because the gracious hand

of God was on me. 9 When I came to the

governors of the province

west of the Euphrates River, I

delivered the king’s letters to

them. The king, I should add,

had sent along army officers

and horsemen to protect me.

Commentary:

In the last verse of chapter 1, we see that Nehemiah was the king’s

cupbearer, a high position in any ancient royal court. The cupbearer

was a personal ‘bodyguard’ to the king, being the one who tasted

wine and food before the king did to make sure no one could poison

the king. The cupbearer was responsible for choosing most of the

foods and wines for the king and his court to enjoy. This gave the

cupbearer frequent access to the king’s presence which made him

potentially a man of influence. With this, the king had tremendous

amount of trust in his cupbearer. Often, the cupbearer would serve as

an advisor to the king; being asked his opinion on different matters

coming before the king.

It’s been four months since Nehemiah heard about the predicament

of Jerusalem and the walls not being up. From that day on,

Nehemiah praying, grieving and thinking about what he could do

about the situation in Jerusalem. On this particular day, Nehemiah

appeared before the king with a sad look on his face. Verse 1 says

that he had never been sad or depressed in the presence of the king

before. It is said that it was forbidden to be sad in the presence of the

king. The idea was that the king was such a wonderful person that

merely being in his presence was supposed to make you forget all of

your problems. When Nehemiah looked sad, it could have been

taken as a terrible insult to the king. Therefore, when the king took

notice, Nehemiah became dreadfully afraid. Furthermore, Nehemiah

was afraid because he knew that he was going to the king for

something very important. Nevertheless, Nehemiah preceded and

told the king the reason for his sadness.

Nehemiah explained to the king that the reason he is sad is because

Jerusalem, his homeland, was destroyed and lies in disgrace. He

explained to the king how the city walls lie in rubble and he is

concerned for the pride, safety, and well-being of his people. If

anyone would understand the importance of a city wall and

sympathizing for the welfare of a people would be a king.

The king asked him, “how may I help you?” Here the door is open as

Nehemiah recognized that God gave him favor with the king. Verse

4 says Nehemiah prayed. Nehemiah knew this was an incredible

opportunity, and he did not want to miss the chance. Nehemiah

respectfully asked for a leave of absence and to be sent, by the king,

to return to Judah to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. The king, with

the queen beside him, asked Nehemiah how long he would be gone.

With that Nehemiah gave him an answer and preceded to ask for

letters of permission to travel safely through the various areas on his

way to Judah. Nehemiah goes further asking the king to fund the

project by providing the lumber to rebuild the walls. The king

granted his requests. Not only did the king provide the traveling

letters and the materials needed to rebuild the beams for the wall, he

sent along army officers and horsemen to protect Nehemiah as he

traveled back to Jerusalem.

In the four months from hearing about the predicament of Jerusalem

and the walls not being up to this conversation with the king,

Nehemiah prayed but also had had a plan and God works through a

plan. Nehemiah carefully planned his approach and at the core of his

planning was prayer. Many people fail to seek God in their pursuits

and ideas. Some people pray but make no efforts on their own to get

up, plan and make moves. We are to do both; pray and seek God as

well as plan and use the resources God has given to us. God has

blessed us with intellect and the ability to plan ahead. When

Nehemiah presented his plan to the king, God’s favor rested on him

and the challenge to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem were underway.

Questions:

1. Why would Nehemiah be afraid when the king commented

on him being sad in his presence?

How does Nehemiah respond to the king’s question about

him being so sad?

2. Why do you think Nehemiah felt ‘comfortable’ enough to

ask the king for the things he did?

Why do you think the king granted Nehemiah his requests?

3. What are you doing to prepare yourself to be used by God?

What role does prayer have in that preparation?

4. What opportunities is God placing in front of you?

What plan do you see Him working out in your life?

Daily Readings:

Monday, October 14, Lamentations 1

Tuesday, October 15, Lamentations 2

Wednesday, October 16, Lamentations 3

Thursday, October 17, Lamentations 4

Friday, October 18, Lamentations 5

Saturday, October 19, Reflections

Sunday, October 20, Nehemiah 2: 11-20

October 20, 2019 Lesson 8

“Assessing the Work”

Nehemiah 2: 11-20 (NKJV)

11 So I came to Jerusalem and

was there three days.

12 Then I arose in the night, I

and a few men with me; I told

no one what my God had put

in my heart to do at

Jerusalem; nor was there any

animal with me, except the

one on which I rode.

13 And I went out by night

through the Valley Gate to the

Serpent Well and the Refuse

Gate, and viewed the walls of

Jerusalem which were broken

down and its gates which

were burned with fire.

14 Then I went on to the

Fountain Gate and to the

King’s Pool, but there was no

room for the animal under me

to pass.

15 So I went up in the night by

the valley, and viewed the

wall; then I turned back and

entered by the Valley Gate,

and so returned.

16 And the officials did not

know where I had gone or

what I had done; I had not yet

told the Jews, the priests, the

nobles, the officials, or the

others who did the work.

17 Then I said to them, “You

see the distress that we are

in, how Jerusalem lies

waste, and its gates are

burned with fire. Come and

let us build the wall of

Jerusalem, that we may no

longer be a reproach.”

18 And I told them of the

hand of my God which had

been good upon me, and

also of the king’s words that

he had spoken to me. So,

they said, “Let us rise up

and build.” Then they set

their hands to this good

work.

19 But when Sanballat the

Horonite, Tobiah the

Ammonite official, and

Geshem the Arab heard of it,

they laughed at us and

despised us, and said, “What

is this thing that you are

doing? Will you rebel against

the king?”

20 So I answered them, and

said to them, “The God of

heaven Himself will prosper

us; therefore we His servants

will arise and build, but you

have no heritage or right or

memorial in Jerusalem.”

.

Commentary:

Nehemiah entered Jerusalem with a military escort and lumber from

the king of Persia’s forest. Though the people there would have

noticed him, Nehemiah does not say one word for his plans or

intentions as he remained quiet for three days. Nehemiah came into

Jerusalem full of faith, energy, vision, and support from the king, yet

does not say one word of his plans for three plans. Charles Spurgeon

said, “You will often find it best not to commit your plans to others.

If you want to serve God, go and do it, and then let other people find

it out afterwards. You have no need to tell what you are going to do,

and, I may add, there is no need for you retelling what you have

done, for very, very frequently God withdraws himself when we

boast of what is being done.”

One night, Nehemiah goes out to look and investigate the walls

himself to see the damage. For the first time, Nehemiah saw with his

eyes what had been reported to him, and what God had called him to

repair. Nehemiah knew the job of rebuilding the walls couldn’t go

forth unless he saw exactly how bad the situation was. Nehemiah

teaches here that we are to look at the problems and situations

carefully and study what is wrong; but only if we have the heart,

vision and passion to be used by God to get things right. One cannot

be useful and impactful to “fix” a situation if they have no

knowledge, data, or information about the situation. How can one be

impactful if they are not acquainted about a situation?

After taking time to see the devastation of the walls for himself,

Nehemiah addressed the leaders and citizens of Jerusalem. He

explained his vision for rebuilding the walls and sought their

assistance in getting the job done. For a project of this magnitude,

Nehemiah knew the importance of getting the leaders and the people

on board. He asked them to look at the walls and notice how

Jerusalem is in distress. Nehemiah asked for the people to partner

with him to restore the walls and the city itself. If God could move

upon the heart of a pagan king to partner in this work, God could

certainly could move upon the hearts of His own people to join in.

Nehemiah told the people how the gracious hand of God had been on

me, and about my conversation with the king. He assured the leaders

this wasn’t his project but God’s. God has already made provisions

for the walls to be rebuilt and used a pagan king to grant resources

for this project. He asked the people to join in and watch God move

as they build. The people responded by saying, “Yes, let us rise up

and build.” And they set their hands to this good work.

All was going well, however, verse 19 says, when Sanballat the

Horonite, Tobiah the Ammonite official, and Geshem the Arab heard

of it, they laughed at us and despised us. These three came in an

attempt to stop and dissuade Nehemiah and the people to stop

working before they started on the work. As believers, we are to be

prepared to face opposition while doing a work for the Lord.

Nehemiah ignored their comments and boldly declared his

confidence in God. Nehemiah said, “The God of heaven Himself will

prosper us; therefore, we His servants will arise and build. He

refused to allow them to sidetrack him but remained focused on the

task at hand. Same goes for us, we are to never allow our enemies to

stop us for staying for the Lord.

Questions:

1. Why do you think Nehemiah did not tell anyone of his plans

during his three days in Jerusalem? What can we learn

from this?

2. Why was it important for Nehemiah to go out and view;

investigate the city walls for himself?

Why do you think Nehemiah went to investigate walls

during the night?

3. What problems/areas do you believe God is giving as a

passion for you to address and fix; ministries for you to serve

and make a difference?

Why is it important for you to investigate; do research before

jumping in and doing the work?

4. How hard or easy is it for you to ask others to help you with

a project?

How do you view “partnership” / “teamwork”?

5. What kind of opposition did Nehemiah face?

What kind of “opposition” have you faced when you were

doing something for God?

6. How did Nehemiah respond to his opposition?

How did you respond to your opposition? Is there a

difference in how you handled yours from how Nehemiah

handled his? If yes, explain the difference.

Daily Readings:

Monday, October 21, Psalm 33: 1-11

Tuesday, October 22, Psalm 33: 12-22

Wednesday, October 23, Psalm 123: 1-4

Thursday, October 24, 2 Chronicles 20: 1-19

Friday, October 25, 2 Chronicles 20: 20-30

Saturday, October 26, Reflections

Sunday, October 27, Nehemiah 4: 1-15

October 27, 2019 Lesson 9

“Dealing with Opposition”

Nehemiah 4: 1-15 (NLT)

1 Sanballat was very angry

when he learned that we were

rebuilding the wall. He flew

into a rage and mocked the

Jews,

2 saying in front of his friends

and the Samarian army

officers, “What does this

bunch of poor, feeble Jews

think they’re doing? Do they

think they can build the wall

in a single day by just offering

a few sacrifices? Do they

actually think they can make

something of stones from a

rubbish heap; and charred

ones at that?”

3 Tobiah the Ammonite, who

was standing beside him,

remarked, “That stone wall

would collapse if even a fox

walked along the top of it!”

4 Then I prayed, “Hear us, our

God, for we are being

mocked. May their scoffing

fall back on their own heads,

and may they themselves

become captives in a foreign

land! 5 Do not ignore their guilt. Do

not blot out their sins, for they

have provoked you to anger

here in front of the builders.”

6 At last the wall was

completed to half its height

around the entire city, for the

people had worked with

enthusiasm. 7 But when Sanballat and

Tobiah and the Arabs,

Ammonites, and Ashdodites

heard that the work was going

ahead and that the gaps in the

wall of Jerusalem were being

repaired, they were furious. 8 They all made plans to come

and fight against Jerusalem

and throw us into confusion. 9 But we prayed to our God

and guarded the city day and

night to protect ourselves. 10 Then the people of Judah

began to complain, “The

workers are getting tired, and

there is so much rubble to be

moved. We will never be able

to build the wall by

ourselves.” 11 Meanwhile, our enemies

were saying, “Before they

know what’s happening, we

will swoop down on them and

kill them and end their work.” 12 The Jews who lived near

the enemy came and told us

again and again, “They will

come from all directions and

attack us!”

13 So I placed armed guards

behind the lowest parts of the

wall in the exposed areas. I

stationed the people to stand

guard by families, armed with

swords, spears, and bows. 14 Then as I looked over the

situation, I called together

the nobles and the rest of

the people and said to them,

“Don’t be afraid of the

enemy! Remember the

Lord, who is great and

glorious, and fight for your

brothers, your sons, your

daughters, your wives, and

your homes!” 15 When our enemies heard

that we knew of their plans

and that God had frustrated

them, we all returned to our

work on the wall.

Commentary:

Sanballat and Tobiah were disturbed when they heard that Nehemiah

has come to help the people of Jerusalem by rebuilding the city wall.

They tried to stop them by mocking and using intimidation. Now that

the work had begun, they were furious and outraged. They sought to

discourage Nehemiah and the workers to the point of them ceasing

the working. David Guzik said, “Discouragement is such a powerful

weapon because it is somewhat the opposite of faith. Where faith

believes God and His love and promises, discouragement looks for

and believes the worst; and tends to pretty much forget about who

God is and what He has promised to do.”

Nehemiah and the workers had legal protection from the king, to

rebuild the wall. Sanballat and Tobiah had no authority to actually

stop the work. All they could do was discourage the Jews in efforts

to stop the work. This is how the enemy comes at us; the believers.

We “legally” belong to the King and He has His protection on us as

well as provide for us. Yet, the enemy tries to discourage us from

doing the thing God has set before us.

Upon hearing the criticism and discouraging words from his

enemies, Nehemiah prayed unto the Lord. Instead of going back and

forth with Sanballat and Tobiah, Nehemiah prayed. He prayed that

God would handle his enemies so that the work could continue and

God answered his prayer. God moved in the people by giving them a

mind to work. The wall was completed to half its height around the

entire city, and the people worked with enthusiasm.

As the work was progressing and the walls were being restored and

the gaps were beginning to close, Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabs, the

Ammonites, and the Ashdodites became angry and conspired

together to attack Jerusalem and create confusion. Their enemies

moved from complaining, teasing and mocking to now threatening

and planning violence. They sought to create confusion amongst the

people. This is one of the key strategies of the enemy; to create

confusion among God’s people. A confused people will never move

forward and fulfill God’s work as they are distracted by the tricks of

the enemies instead of staying focused on the task at hand and the

voice of God. Nehemiah, upon hearing what the enemy was up to,

prayed again to God and set guards to watch over the people both

day and night in case the enemy attacked.

Beginning in verse 10, the workers started to complain stating they

were getting tired and that there was so much rubbish, they did not

know how they were able to finish the wall. They are at the half-way

point and fatigue is setting in. Many projects start off strong, yet

remain unfinished because of physical, mental and emotional fatigue.

We must remain motivated to finish strong as well. At the beginning

of the project, Nehemiah had to persuade the people to start

rebuilding the city walls. Now, as leader, he has to motivate them to

stay on task and finish as they are slowing down and on the verge of

quitting due to fatigue and lack of resources.

On top of this, their enemies continued to make threats stating they

were coming and would kill them. However, God made it possible

that Nehemiah and company knew of their enemy’s plans by their

neighboring Jews. Nehemiah, full of faith, stationed his people at

various posts with weapons. He then stood amongst the people and

reminded them just how good and powerful their God was. He said

to them, “Don’t be afraid of the enemy! Remember the Lord, who is

great and glorious.” He then reminded them of who they were

fighting for, their brothers, sons, daughters, wives, and homes. Same

with us, we are to remind ourselves who we are fighting for, “our

families, children, communities, etc.”

The enemy heard that Nehemiah and company were aware of their

plans and decided not to do anything. They didn’t want to fight

because they knew they would lose. And with their enemy stepping

back, the people went right back to work.

Questions:

1. Have you ever had someone to discourage you from doing

something for God? How did you handle it?

2. Why do you think Sanballat and Tobiah sought to demise the

rebuild the walls of Jerusalem?

3. Verse six says that the walls were completed to half its

height because the people worked with enthusiasm. What

would you like to see the church do together to impact our

community? What can you do to ‘stir up’ the enthusiasm

amongst God’s people to get the work started and complete?

4. When the enemies planned to attack, Nehemiah set guards at

different post to protect the city (v.13). What ways can we

“spiritually” protect our homes, communities?

Daily Readings:

Monday, October 28, Nehemiah 4: 16-23

Tuesday, October 29, Nehemiah 5: 1-13

Wednesday, October 30, Nehemiah 5: 14-19

Thursday, October 31, Nehemiah 6: 1-14

Friday, November 1, Nehemiah 6: 15-19

Saturday, November 2, Reflections

Sunday, November 3, Nehemiah 7: 1-5, 66-73

November 3, 2019 Lesson 10

“Things Coming Together”

Nehemiah 6: 15-16, 7: 1-5, 66-73 (NLT)

6:15 So on October 2 the wall

was finished; just fifty-two

days after we had begun. 16 When our enemies and

the surrounding nations

heard about it, they were

frightened and humiliated.

They realized this work had

been done with the help of

our God.

7:1 After the wall was finished

and I had set up the doors in

the gates, the gatekeepers,

singers, and Levites were

appointed. 2 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. 3 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.”

4 At that time the city was

large and spacious, but the

population was small, and

none of the houses had been

rebuilt. 5 So my God gave me the idea

to call together all the nobles

and leaders of the city, along

with the ordinary citizens, for

registration.

7:66 So a total of 42,360 people

returned to Judah, 67 in addition to 7,337 servants

and 245 singers, both men and

women. 68 They took with them 736

horses, 245 mules, 69 435 camels, and 6,720

donkeys. 70 Some of the family leaders

gave gifts for the work. The

governor gave to the treasury

1,000 gold coins, 50 gold

basins, and 530 robes for the

priests. 71 The other leaders gave to

the treasury a total of 20,000

gold coins and some 2,750

pounds of silver for the work.

72 The rest of the people gave

20,000 gold coins, about

2,500 pounds of silver, and 67

robes for the priests. 73 So the priests, the Levites,

the gatekeepers, the singers,

the Temple servants, and

some of the common people

settled near Jerusalem. The

rest of the people returned to

their own towns throughout

Israel.

Commentary:

After 52 days, the walls were complete. The walls of Jerusalem were

in ruins for over 100 years, but were set right in a period of 52 days.

God used Nehemiah to set right a 100-year-old problem in less than

two months because he had the heart, determination and courage to

complete. And because the walls were complete, the enemy was sad

and afraid for they knew the work was done with the help of the

Lord. When something has the hands of God on it, all of our enemies

will notice it.

After the walls were complete, Nehemiah set the doors in the gate

and assigned the gatekeepers, singers and Levites. Things were in

order both practically (the wall, doors and gatekeepers) and

spiritually (singers and Levites). According to David Guzik, the

singers and the Levites were there to lead the people in worship. The

walls were not rebuilt so the people of Jerusalem could look at nice

walls but that they could worship God with greater glory and

freedom than ever before.

Nehemiah appointed his brother Hanani to serve as governing over

Jerusalem. Interestingly, this is the same brother who informed

Nehemiah of the state of affairs of Jerusalem back in chapter 1. His

initiative and concern made him well qualified to govern.

Furthermore, Nehemiah appointed Hananiah as the commander of

the citadel stating that he was faithful and feared the Lord more than

most at that time. He charged them all to stay on watch against the

enemies and to keep the doors closed until the hottest time of the

day. Though the walls were rebuilt, they still could protect

themselves so the people were to be on constant watch against

danger from the enemy.

Nehemiah noticed how spacious the city was yet few residents in the

inside. There were many abandoned houses in the city. He wanted to

see the city grow and prosper but in order for that do happen, he

needed to know who all lived there. With God, he set the plan in

motion to gather the people together so that they could make a list of

all the families. He took a census and looked at the registry first

written by Ezra.

In chapter 7 are listed the people who returned to Jerusalem and

Judah. This list was important because each of these people took the

trouble to return back to the Promised Land after they had already set

down roots for seventy years in the Babylon. They returned to

reclaim their city even though Jerusalem was in despair. Altogether,

there were 42,360 people in the group who came back.

The chapter ends showing the people giving towards the work of

restoring the city and the temple. They gave gold, silver, bowls and

clothing for the priests. Finally, after the work was completed, the

people took residence with pride and joy in their city again.

Rebuilding the walls showed them what it meant to work together,

give and support one another, and trust God in the face of adversity.

Here they are now, living in peace and security.

Questions:

1. Why were the enemies frightened and humiliated when they

heard that the walls were finished and completed?

2. Why did Nehemiah ask his brother Hanani to serve as

governor of Jerusalem?

3. What position was Hananiah given? What was said to be

his traits and the reason he was given this position?

4. We not only saw the people working to rebuild the walls, but

now we see the giving toward the renovation of Jerusalem

and the temple. What does this show about the enthusiasm

and unity amongst the people?

5. Is there anything you are giving or yourself, your time, your

finances to for a greater cause? For your community? For

your church?

In what way(s) are you making sacrifices to benefit your

community?

Daily Readings: Monday, November 4, Psalm 119: 1 - 40

Tuesday, November 5, Psalm 119: 41 - 80

Wednesday, November 6, Psalm 119: 81 - 112

Thursday, November 7, Psalm 119: 113 - 144

Friday, November 8, Psalm 119: 145 - 176

Saturday, November 9, Reflections

Sunday, November 10, Nehemiah 8: 1-12

November 10, 2019 Lesson 11

“Celebrating God’s Word”

Nehemiah 8: 1-12 (ERV)

1 So all the Israelites met

together in the seventh month

of the year. They were united

and in complete agreement.

They all met together in the

open place in front of the

Water Gate. All the people

asked Ezra the teacher to

bring out the Book of the Law

of Moses, which the Lord had

given to the Israelites. 2 So Ezra the priest brought

the law before those who had

met together. This was on the

first day of the month. It was

the seventh month of the year.

Men, women, and anyone old

enough to listen and

understand were at the

meeting. 3 Ezra read in a loud voice

from the Book of the Law

from early morning until

noon. He was facing the open

place that was in front of the

Water Gate. He read to all the

men and women, and to

everyone old enough to listen

and understand. All the people

listened carefully and paid

attention to the Book of the

Law.

4 Ezra stood on a high wooden

stage. It had been built just for

this special time. On his right

side stood Mattithiah, Shema,

Anaiah, Uriah, Hilkiah, and

Maaseiah. And on his left side

stood Pedaiah, Mishael,

Malkijah, Hashum,

Hashbaddanah, Zechariah,

and Meshullam. 5 So Ezra opened the book. All

the people could see him

because he was standing

above them on the high stage.

As he opened the Book of the

Law, all the people stood up. 6 Ezra praised the Lord, the

great God, and all the people

held up their hands and said,

“Amen! Amen!” Then all the

people bowed down and put

their faces low to the ground

and they worshiped the Lord. 7 These men from the tribe of

Levi taught the people about

the law as they were all

standing there. The Levites

were Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah,

Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai,

Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita,

Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, and

Pelaiah. 8 They read the Book of the

Law of God. They made it

easy to understand, and

explained what it meant. They

did this so that the people

could understand what was

being read. 9 Then Nehemiah the

governor, Ezra the priest and

teacher, and the Levites who

were teaching the people

spoke. They said, “Today is a

special day to the Lord your

God. Don’t be sad and cry.”

They said that because all the

people had begun to cry as

they were listening to the

messages of God in the law. 10 Nehemiah said, “Go and

enjoy the good food and sweet

drinks. Give some food and

drinks to those who didn’t

prepare any food. Today is a

special day to our Lord. Don’t

be sad, because the joy of the

Lord will make you strong.” 11 The Levites helped the

people to calm down. They

said, “Be quiet, calm down,

this is a special day. Don’t be

sad.” 12 Then all the people went

to eat the special meal. They

shared their food and

drinks. They celebrated that

special day. They were

happy that they could hear

the reading of God’s law

and were now able to

understand it.

Commentary:

The Israelites met together, in one place, and were in complete

agreement to hear from the Book of the Law of Moses. This

demonstrated that the Spirit of God was upon them as only God’s

Spirit brings people together with a heart to hear God’s Word. They

requested for Ezra to read from the Book of the Law of Moses. This

refers to the first five books of the Bible which stood as Israel’s

instruction manual on how to walk before God. Ezra was a scribe,

which meant he was one who copied the Bible by hand. Furthermore,

Ezra was a priest. It was he who was responsible for having the

temple rebuilt, and for God’s people returning back for worship.

Nehemiah, in all his work of rebuilding the walls, carried on the

work Ezra had begun. Ezra read from the Book from early in the

morning to noon, close to six hours, and the people listened carefully

and paid attention to all Ezra read.

Ezra stood on a high, wooden platform to read from so that the

people could better hear him. The stage was built for this purpose.

On both sides of him were men who supported him in the ministry of

teaching God’s Word. When Ezra opened the Book, all the people

stood out of respect for the Word of God. Ezra praised the Lord and

all the people held their hands and shouted, “Amen.” The people

then bowed down with their faces to the ground and worshipped the

Lord. Prayer, Praise, and Worship are all good measures of how the

Spirit of the Lord and His Word work in us.

In verse 7, we are given special names of those who were appointed

to help the people understand God’s Word. They read the Book of

the Law and made it easy for the people to understand and explain

what it meant. It is the goal of a preacher and teacher to make the

people have a better understanding of God’s Word. The preacher and

teacher must communicate what the Scripture is saying and not give

their own personal agenda or motive. It is through the Holy Spirit

that gives preachers and teachers the gift to help God’s people

understand the Word of God.

As the people heard the Word of God, the people wept and mourn. 2

Timothy 3:16 tells us that, “Everything in the Scriptures is God’s

Word. All of it is useful for teaching and helping people and for

correcting them and showing them how to live. (CEV)” Sometimes it

hurts to be corrected. However, Nehemiah, Ezra and the Levites who

taught the people did not want them to cry. Though it is a good thing

to mourn when convicted by the Spirit through the Word of God, yet

if the conviction is greater than what God is doing in our lives,

mourning and weeping is not good. Our knowledge of our sin should

never be bigger than our knowledge of Jesus as our savior. When we

are convicted of our sin, we should know that God is doing a work in

us. With that, we are to be glad and take joy of the work that has

begun in us.

Nehemiah told the people to go and enjoy the good food and sweet

drinks. They were to give some food and drinks to those who didn’t

prepare any that day. Nehemiah told them that today is a special day

to our Lord. Therefore, they were not to be sad for the joy of the

Lord will make you strong. The people ate, they had drinks, they

celebrated and were happy that they could hear the Word of the Lord

and understand what it said. They went away praising God, because

they now knew God’s mind and His promises as well as their duty

and obligation towards Him, which gave them hope and trust in

God’s mercy and consequently great joy.

Questions:

1. The people came and heard Ezra read from the Book of the

Law for 5-6 hours. Why is it difficult for some people to

come to Bible study / Sunday school for one hour?

2. In verses 5 & 6, we see Ezra and the people worshipping

God as they read and listened to the Word of God. What

forms of worship do you see in these verses? Do the

reading and hearing of God’s Word cause you to worship

and praise God in like manner? If yes, explain. If no, why

do you think it doesn’t?

3. Why were the people weeping when they heard the Law of

Moses? When is the last time you experienced such deep

remorse from reading God’s Word?

4. In verses 10 & 11, why did Nehemiah, Ezra and the Levites

encourage the people to celebrate with food and drink and to

share with others?

5. What is Worship? What is required to "worship"?

What can we learn about worship from this passage?

Daily Readings:

Monday, November 11, Malachi 1: 1-12

Tuesday, November 12, Malachi 2: 1-9

Wednesday, November 13, Malachi 2: 10-17

Thursday, November 14, Malachi 3: 1-12

Friday, November 15, Malachi 3: 13-18

Saturday, November 16, Reflections

Sunday, November 17, Haggai 1: 2-15

November 17, 2019 Lesson 12

“A Call to Build God’s House”

Haggai 1: 2-15 (ERV)

2 This is what the Lord All-

Powerful said, “The people

say it is not yet the right time

to build the Lord’s Temple.” 3 Again Haggai received a

message from the Lord.

Haggai spoke this message: 4 “You people think the right

time has come for you to live

in nice houses. You live in

houses with beautiful wooden

paneling on the walls, but the

Lord’s house is still in ruins. 5 Now the Lord All-Powerful

says, ‘Think about what is

happening. 6 You have planted many

seeds, but you have gathered

only a few crops. You have

food to eat, but not enough to

get full. You have something

to drink, but not enough to get

drunk. You have some clothes

to wear, but not enough to

keep warm. You earn a little

money, but you don’t know

where it all goes. It’s as

though there is a hole in your

pocket!’” 7 The Lord All-Powerful said,

“Think about what you are

doing.

8 Go up to the mountains,

get the wood, and build the

Temple. Then I will be

pleased with the Temple,

and I will be honored.” This

is what the Lord said. 9 The Lord All-Powerful

said, “You people look for a

big harvest, but when you

go to gather the crop, there

is only a little grain. So, you

bring that grain home, and

then I send a wind that

blows it all away. Why is

this happening? Because my

house is still in ruins while

each of you runs home to

take care of your own house. 10 That is why the sky holds

back its dew and why the

earth holds back its crops. 11 “I gave the command for

the land and the mountains to

be dry. The grain, the new

wine, the olive oil, and

everything the earth produces

will be ruined. All the people

and all the animals will

become weak.” 12 The Lord God had sent

Haggai to speak to

Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel

and to the high priest, Joshua

son of Jehozadak. So these

men and all the people

listened to the voice of the

Lord their God and to the

words of Haggai the prophet.

And the people showed their

fear and respect for the Lord

their God. 13 Then Haggai, the Lord’s

messenger, delivered this

message to the people: “The

Lord says, ‘I am with you!’”

14 Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel

was the governor of Judah.

Joshua son of Jehozadak was

the high priest. The Lord

made them and the rest of the

people excited about working

on the Temple of their God,

the Lord All-Powerful. 15 So they began this work on

the 24th day of the sixth

month in the second year

Darius was the king.

Commentary:

Have you ever felt like there was so much to do, yet not enough time

to complete each activity? Somehow, we may tend to neglect the

more important things in life while we are busy building our own

kingdoms. Today’s lesson draws our attention to the children of

Israel. In 588 B.C. Nebuchadnezzar swept through Palestine and

carried back as captives the wise and wealthy children of Israel. The

Lord allowed this because the children of Israel continued to disobey

and reject Him. The greatest tragedy was that the beautiful Temple

in Jerusalem was destroyed.

According to the Rock of Ages Study Bible (2014) after the 70 years

of Babylonian captivity a few thousand Israelites returned to

Palestine under Zerubbabel the governor. When the children of

Israel returned to reconstruct the Temple of God, their enemies

complained to the authorities and they were commanded to stop the

reconstruction for a time frame. Yet, God sent four messages to the

princes and people of Jerusalem by Haggai the prophet concerning

rebuilding the Temple of the Lord.

The Lord used Haggai to speak a prophetic message to Zerubbabel,

the governor and to Joshua, the high priest. In verse 2 the Lord

speaks, “This is what the Lord Almighty says: “These people say,

‘The time has not yet come to rebuild the Lord’s house.’” The Lord,

heard what the people were saying. Yet, the Lord, poses the question

in verse 4, “Is it a time for you yourselves to be living in your

paneled houses, while this house remains a ruin?”

The remnant focused on rebuilding their personal lives; but

everything the people tried to build for themselves did not prosper.

Their businesses failed; their crops failed. They were failing in

every aspect of their lives. Hence, the Lord wanted them to observe

their ways. The Lord wanted them to focus on rebuilding His

Temple. In doing so, they would then be able to be more purposeful

and successful in their living.

Why did the Lord want the Temple to be rebuilt? God is love;

therefore, all of His commands and actions are based on His love for

His children. The children of Israel needed to restore the House of

God so that they could have a place of worship to commune with

God. The church is not just a building; the church consists of God’s

people coming together to worship the Lord and receive instruction

to spread the love of the Father in all other aspects of their lives.

Our church’s theme this year is living with purpose. In order to live

with purpose, we must recognize that we each have a unique

assignment. We may have gifts that are similar to another’s gifts yet

the manner in which we operate and flow in our gifts and callings are

unique. Every time we come to the Lord’s House our assignment

becomes clearer and clearer as we listen to the anointed Word of the

Lord being proclaimed. The best way to discover what the Father

has specifically created us to do is to come together in His house and

hear the Word being taught and preached. While listening to the

Word, you will hear the Lord’s personal message uniquely crafted

for you and your situation. Psalm 36:8 declares “They shall be

abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt

make them drink of the river of thy pleasures.” If you’re in trouble

or searching for an answer to your problem, begin to worship Our

Lord and listen to His Word in the House of the Lord. Then you will

find that in Jesus you will see with clarity the solution for your

difficult circumstance.

God commanded the leaders and the remnant to get busy rebuilding

His Temple. In this declaration, the Lord instructed them how to

rebuild His temple with specific instructions and He also stirred up

their spirits to start and finish the project. Whenever you encounter

opposition as you carry out your assignment be it in the church, or in

the workplace, remember that you can only complete your

assignment in God’s grace. You will not complete your assignment

relying upon your own talents, skills, and resources. Continue to

listen to God’s Word so that your life, attitude, and actions will

reflect the Lord’s call upon your life. You will prosper and the

Kingdom of Heaven will advance as you reign in life living with

purpose.

Rock of Ages Study Bible (2014). Luke. (5th ed.), KJV Study Edition. Cleveland, TN: Rock of

Ages.

Questions:

1. Have you recognized your purpose/assignment for this era of

your life?

2. In living with purpose, have you experienced opposition or

discouragement?

3. How do you handle difficult seasons of doubt or

discouragement?

4. Is there anything in your life, family, work, church, etc., that

the Lord is challenging you to change?

5. Have you ever neglected a work God has called you to do in

order to take care of your own personal need? Please share.

Daily Readings:

Monday, November 18, Joshua 1: 1-9

Tuesday, November 19, 1 Chronicles 28: 1-20

Wednesday, November 20, 2 Chronicles 1: 1-13

Thursday, November 21, 2 Chronicles 2: 1-18

Friday, November 22, 2 Chronicles 5: 1-14

Saturday, November 23, Reflections

Sunday, November 24, Haggai 2: 1-9

November 24, 2019 Lesson 13

“God Encourages His People”

Haggai 2: 1-9 (NLT)

1 In the seventh month, in the

one and twentieth day of the

month, came the word of the

Lord by the prophet Haggai,

saying,

2 Speak now to Zerubbabel the

son of Shealtiel, governor of

Judah, and to Joshua the son

of Josedech, the high priest,

and to the residue of the

people, saying,

3 Who is left among you that

saw this house in her first

glory? and how do ye see it

now? is it not in your eyes in

comparison of it as nothing?

4 Yet now be strong, O

Zerubbabel, saith the Lord;

and be strong, O Joshua,

son of Josedech, the high

priest; and be strong, all ye

people of the land, saith the

Lord, and work: for I am

with you, saith the Lord of

hosts:

5 According to the word that

I covenanted with you when

ye came out of Egypt, so my

spirit remaineth among you:

fear ye not.

6 For thus saith the Lord of

hosts; Yet once, it is a little

while, and I will shake the

heavens, and the earth, and

the sea, and the dry land;

7 And I will shake all nations,

and the desire of all nations

shall come: and I will fill this

house with glory, saith the

Lord of hosts.

8 The silver is mine, and the

gold is mine, saith the Lord of

hosts.

9 The glory of this latter house

shall be greater than of the

former, saith the Lord of

hosts: and in this place will I

give peace, saith the Lord of

hosts.

Commentary:

In today’s lesson we see the prophet Haggai speaking a word of

encouragement to Zerubbabel the governor, Joshua the high priest,

and the remnant of people. Let’s discuss the lesson.

Verses 3-4. The Lords instructs Haggai to ask a question in verse 3,

‘Who is left among you that saw this house in her first glory? and

how do ye see it now? What do you think? Does this Temple seem

like nothing when you compare it with the first Temple?’ Are we

busying comparing our lives with someone else’s life? Do we find

ourselves comparing new ideas and strategies with things of the

past? Be careful not to shun the new and exciting things that the Lord

is doing. Just like the children of Israel, in the past we were given a

certain level of grace to sustain us during that particular time period.

Let us not become complacent with the attitude of “this is how we

used to do it.” God provides our daily bread, meaning new levels

requires new diets. The children of Israel were never instructed to

eat last year’s manna. God provided fresh manna each day! As

children of the Living God we are to partake of His grace daily; daily

seek His face, instruction, and wisdom for the present day. We

cannot enter the promised land feasting on the slave diet and

mentality of Egypt. As Paul wrote in Philippians 3, we are to forget

those things which are behind and reach for those things that are

before us. The Lord encourages us to be strong and continue to

work.

Verses 5-6. The Lord reminds His people that He made this promise

to them when they came out of Egypt. God is not a man that He

should lie; if God said it He will bring it to pass (Numbers 23:19). In

this passage God reminds the people that in a little while He will

begin to shake the heavens and the earth and He will shake all

nations. The Lord is not slack concerning His promises (2 Peter

3:9). In verse 7 the Lord declares that He will shake all nations and

the desire of all nations will come. What is the desire of all nations?

What is everyone looking for? All nations were created by God;

therefore, there exists in every man, woman, boy, and girl an earnest

desire to know God their true creator. Many nations perform rituals

and go through extremes to experience God in some way, shape, or

form. People are looking for God’s peace in a world filled with so

much turmoil and pain; unfortunately, many are looking for God’s

love and peace in all of the wrong places. The world is looking for

solutions to the economic, educational, and social problems.

However, the solution lies within the Creator, our loving Father,

whom many fail to even acknowledge. In God’s presence there is

fulness of joy (Psalm 16:11).

Verses 7-9. The Easy-to-Read Version states ‘I will shake up the

nations, and they will come to you with wealth from every nation.

And then I will fill this Temple with glory.’ That is what the Lord All-

Powerful said! 8 ‘All their silver really belongs to me! And all the

gold is mine!’ This is what the Lord All-Powerful said. 9 And

the Lord All-Powerful said, ‘This last Temple will be more beautiful

than the first one, and I will bring peace to this place.’ Remember,

this is what the Lord All-Powerful said.” Wow, church of God! Let’s

get ready for the wealth transfer. God is doing a new thing and the

glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the

former house. The church has the answer for all the world’s

problems because the present church is filled with God’s glory! The

church is to serve as the salt of the earth; we are Christ’s bright lights

of hope in dark places. The Lord is shaking the earth so that the

church will have all of the resources, wisdom, and provisions to

fulfill His Kingdom mandate in the earth.

In closing, people are desperately seeking the Father’s love yet many

are being deceived by the schemes of enemy. As the body of Christ,

we are to be encouraged and remain steadfast in advancing the

Kingdom of Heaven. Many people are trying to handle real life

problems with worldly advice. Yet, the Lord declares that He will

grant peace in His House. Jesus declares in Matthew 16:18 upon this

rock I will build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail.

The enemy cannot and will not prevail against the church of Jesus

Christ. This is why the Lord desires for His children to come

together in His House. He wants us to experience His glory, love,

and peace, and then be beacons of hope for a troubled world. The

positive effects of Love attract. Jehovah Shalom, our God of peace

wants us to experience Him; one encounter with Jesus and your life

will never be the same. Your entire outlook on life will change and

you will have a new perspective filled with purposeful living.

Questions:

1. Do you ever find yourself making comparisons between

your past and present situations?

2. What discouraged the people to stop building (Haggai 2:3)?

3. How can you encourage someone dealing with a difficult

situation?

4. What was said in verses 2:4-5 that might encourage the

people?

5. How does the Lord, in verses 2:6-8, encourage the builders?

How can you relate to the declaration in verse 7-8?

6. What is the message in 2:9 that can bring hope in their

building project?

How does ‘HOPE’ motivate people?

Daily Readings:

Monday, November 25, Psalm 34: 1-9

Tuesday, November 26, Psalm 95: 1-7

Wednesday, November 27, Psalm 100: 1-5

Thursday, November 28, Psalm 105: 1-8

Friday, November 29, Psalm 107: 1-9

Saturday, November 30, Reflections

Sunday, December 1, Isaiah 12: 1-6

Notes:

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