AN EXAMPLE FOR ME
Today's reading: Nehemiah 5-9

"When I heard their complaints, I was very angry. after thinking about the situations, I spoke..." Nehemiah 5:6 NLT

I've always preferred Nehemiah as my Bible role model over the Proverbs 31 woman.

Oh, they're both great examples, but something about Nehemiah catches my heart and resounds with my spirit.

Something about him links my heart to his, even these thousands of years after the fact.

I believe part of it has to do with what I see as Nehemiah's biggest asset and weakest link--his mouth.

I get that.

Boy, oh boy, do I get that!

He, and what an example he is to me, practiced self control in regards to what he said, the opinions he gave and the words he offered.

Today's verse is not the only reference to this man's discipline...

"The king asked, Well, how can I help you? With a prayer to the God of heaven, I replied..." Nehemiah 2:4-5 NLT

This man of God knew his words needed to be prayed over, thought about and considered in his heart before they ever left his mouth.

What an example for me to follow.

What a high bar set for me to reach as a goal.

What a godly characteristic I want to see in my spirit.

Thank You, God, for this example and this challenge!