The book of Nehemiah tells the story of the return of the Jewish people to their land to rebuild Jerusalem after being in captivity for hundreds of years. While still under the rule of a foreign king, they are allowed to rebuild the city’s walls. However, despite this wonderful opportunity, Nehemiah laments, “So now today we are slaves in the land of plenty that you gave our ancestors for their enjoyment! We are slaves here in this good land” (Nehemiah 9:36). At first glance the lament of Nehemiah may seem disconnected from our modern lives. However, is this not too the cry of many today? Most of us live in lands of plenty. We have food, homes, transport, entertainment, shops – everything needed for human pleasure. Yet, within this “good land” we are slaves. Slaves to careers. Slaves to food. Slaves to social media. Slaves to fashion. Slaves to societal expectations. Slaves to sin! However, there is good news. “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1). There is freedom. Not in the “good” of the world, but in the love of Jesus. Choose Jesus. Experience Freedom. Open Bible – http://bit.ly/Gal5v1, http://bit.ly/Neh9v36, http://bit.ly/READMore_
