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Nehemiah 9:16-17

…Our ancestors became arrogant and stiff- necked, and they did not obey your commands. They refused to listen and failed to remember the miracles you performed among them. They became stiff- necked and in their rebellion appointed a leader in order to return to their slavery. But you are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love. Therefore you did not desert them….

The walls were not the only thing in Jerusalem that needed to be rebuilt. The hearts of the people were in spiritual disrepair. Ezra was called on to lead the spiritual renewal. The people reviewed the deeds of their ancestors that had brought on the downfall of the nation and then proclaimed five characteristics of God. Take the time to thank God for the ways that He has demonstrated these attributes in your life.

Forgiveness: When we confess our sins, God is faithful to forgive us. Scripture says that He separates our sin from us as far as the east is from the west; He puts our sin behind His back; He throws our sin into the depth of the sea; He remembers them no more. God will forgive you, and then you can forgive yourself. Father, thank You for forgiving my sins and remembering them no more.

Grace: In God’s mercy He holds back what we deserve. In His grace, He gives us what we don’t deserve. Grace is not earned or warranted. It is absolutely free. If grace weren’t free, it wouldn’t be grace. Father, thank You for giving me what I absolutely do not deserve.

Compassion: God does not leave us in our state of sin. He has deep sympathy for us and moves in to alleviate our desperate state. Father, thank You for Your great compassion!

Slow To Anger: I am so thankful that God is patient with me. Lord, I am such a slow learner. Thank You for being so patient with me.

Love: God’s love overflows in its abundance. He loves us so much that He gave His Son to die as our substitute on the cross. That is abounding love!

Father, thank You for showing Your love by sending Jesus to rescue me while I was still a sinner and had no intention of turning to You. In His name. Amen. 

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Read through the Bible this year:

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