Week Forty-Eight: Getting Back to Where I Was
This Week’s Readings
Day 1: Ezra 1-5
Day 2: Ezra 6-10
Day 3: Nehemiah 1-3
Day 4: Nehemiah 4-7
Day 5: Nehemiah 8-10
Day 6: Nehemiah 11-13
Day 7: Catch up
Reflections
Life happens to all of us, but what is one personal thing that fell through the cracks for you while you were focused on doing something for others?
When you feel you're under spiritual attack, how do you handle it? Who do you talk to about it?
If there were one thing you could ask God to restore for you personally, what would that be? Why?
Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore
GraceNotes - My Reflections
Ezra 3:11
With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the Lord: ‘He is good; His love toward Israel endures forever.’ And all the people gave a great shout of praise to the Lord because the foundation of the house of the Lord was laid.
This verse captures a moment of pure joy and gratitude as the Israelites rebuild the temple after years of exile. They aren’t celebrating a finished product—they’re praising God for the foundation. Let that sink in. How often do we wait for the “big win” to give God glory? This verse reminds us to celebrate the small beginnings, the steps forward, and the foundations God is laying in our lives. It’s not about having it all together; it’s about trusting that He’s good and His love endures forever, even in the early stages.
So, take a moment today to thank God for the foundations in your life—the relationships, the opportunities, the lessons. It may not look like the finished product yet, but if God is in it, it’s worth celebrating.
Nehemiah 4:14
Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes.
When Nehemiah and the Israelites faced opposition while rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls, this verse became their rallying cry. Nehemiah didn’t sugarcoat the challenge—they were up against real threats—but he reminded them that God is greater than any obstacle. And here’s the kicker: their fight wasn’t just for themselves; it was for their families, their community, and their legacy.
In our own lives, this verse calls us to stand firm in faith when challenges arise. Whether it’s spiritual battles, personal struggles, or protecting our loved ones, we’re reminded to keep our eyes on the One who is “great and awesome.” God equips us to fight, not in our strength, but in His. So, when the enemy tries to shake you, remember who you’re fighting for and who’s fighting for you.
Nehemiah 8:10
Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.
This verse comes after the people of Israel hear the Word of God and are overwhelmed with conviction. They’re grieving their past mistakes, but Nehemiah steps in with a message of hope: don’t get stuck in sorrow. The joy of the Lord—His presence, His promises, His love—is what will sustain and strengthen you.
This is a reminder for us, too. Life has its moments of regret and reflection, but we don’t live in those moments. God’s joy lifts us out of despair and reminds us that His grace is greater than our failures. So, as you face whatever lies ahead, lean into the joy that comes from knowing you’re loved, forgiven, and empowered by the Creator of the universe. That joy isn’t just a feeling—it’s your strength.
Hey Ladies! Drop your revelations, thoughts, and those lightbulb "aha" moments right down there in the comment section! Let's create a space to spill the beans on how God is throwing us some divine vibes as we dive deep into His word. Time to share the spiritual tea!
