Building a Lasting Legacy of Justice and Integrity

Devotional

Day 1: Legacy Beyond Physical Structures

Legacy is not just about building walls or physical structures; it is about creating a lasting impact for future generations. Nehemiah's efforts to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem were symbolic of restoring the spiritual and moral fabric of the community. This restoration was not just about the physical walls but about addressing the injustices and moral decay within the society. Nehemiah's work reminds us that our legacy should be rooted in the values and principles we uphold, which will influence and inspire future generations long after we are gone.

Nehemiah's personal reflection on his mission shows that he understood the deeper significance of his work. He was not merely a builder of walls but a restorer of hope and righteousness. As we consider our own lives, we should ask ourselves what kind of legacy we are building. Are we focused solely on material achievements, or are we also investing in the spiritual and moral well-being of our communities?

Nehemiah 5:14-16 (ESV): "Moreover, from the time that I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah, from the twentieth year to the thirty-second year of Artaxerxes the king, twelve years, neither I nor my brothers ate the food allowance of the governor. The former governors who were before me laid heavy burdens on the people and took from them for their daily ration forty shekels of silver. Even their servants lorded it over the people. But I did not do so, because of the fear of God."

Reflection: What steps can you take today to ensure that your legacy is not just about material success but also about spiritual and moral impact?

Day 2: Justice is Central to God's Heart

Nehemiah exposed the injustices that were rampant among the people of Jerusalem. The wealthy were exploiting the poor, taking their lands, and even enslaving them. Nehemiah's call for justice was a reminder that true legacy involves fairness and righteousness, not just for the present but for future generations. This aligns with the biblical call to seek justice and defend the oppressed. Nehemiah's actions serve as a powerful example of how we are called to stand against injustice and advocate for those who are marginalized.

In our own lives, we must be vigilant in identifying and addressing injustices within our communities. This may involve speaking out against unfair practices, supporting those who are vulnerable, and working towards systemic change. By doing so, we reflect God's heart for justice and contribute to a legacy of righteousness.

Isaiah 1:17 (ESV): "Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause."

Reflection: Identify an area of injustice in your community. How can you take a stand and advocate for change today? [01:12:31]

Day 3: Integrity Reflects Our Faith

Nehemiah emphasized the importance of living a life that exemplifies the gospel. He pointed out that the people of Jerusalem were being watched by the surrounding nations, and their actions were a reflection of their faith. Nehemiah called them to live in a way that honored God and demonstrated integrity. This call to integrity is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are urged to live such good lives that even their enemies cannot find fault in them.

Living with integrity means being consistent in our actions, words, and beliefs, even when no one is watching. It involves making choices that align with our faith and values, and being a positive example to others. By doing so, we not only honor God but also inspire others to seek Him.

1 Peter 2:12 (ESV): "Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation."

Reflection: In what areas of your life can you demonstrate greater integrity? How can your actions reflect your faith to those around you? [01:18:52]

Day 4: Sacrifice is a Form of Worship

Nehemiah's life of sacrifice was a powerful demonstration of his commitment to God and his people. Despite his position of privilege as the governor, Nehemiah chose not to burden the people with additional taxes or demands. Instead, he devoted himself to the work of rebuilding the wall and serving the community. This act of sacrifice reminds us that true worship involves living a life of sacrifice, setting aside our own desires for the greater good.

Sacrifice is not just about giving up material possessions but also about dedicating our time, energy, and resources to serve others. It is an expression of our love for God and our commitment to His purposes. By living sacrificially, we honor God and contribute to the well-being of our communities.

Romans 12:1 (ESV): "I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you can practice sacrificial living? How can this act of sacrifice be an expression of your worship to God? [01:24:27]

Day 5: Building a Legacy of Faith

Leaving a legacy that honors God involves creating a community rooted in justice, integrity, and sacrifice. As we look to the future, we are called to engage with our community, invite others into our fellowship, and live out our faith in a way that leaves a lasting impact. This is the legacy that Nehemiah sought to build, and it is the legacy that we are called to continue.

Building a legacy of faith requires intentionality and commitment. It involves investing in relationships, mentoring others, and creating an environment where God's love and truth are evident. By doing so, we create a foundation for future generations to build upon and continue the work of God's kingdom.

Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (ESV): "And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise."

Reflection: How can you actively contribute to building a legacy of faith in your community? What steps can you take to mentor and invest in the next generation? [01:29:00]

Sermon Summary

In today's sermon, we delved into the book of Nehemiah, focusing on chapter 5, which highlights the importance of legacy, justice, integrity, and sacrifice. We began by discussing the concept of legacy, emphasizing that it is not just about building physical structures but about creating a lasting impact for future generations. Nehemiah's efforts to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem were symbolic of restoring the spiritual and moral fabric of the community. This restoration was not just about the physical walls but about addressing the injustices and moral decay within the society.

Nehemiah exposed the injustices that were rampant among the people of Jerusalem. The wealthy were exploiting the poor, taking their lands, and even enslaving them. This was a significant issue that Nehemiah addressed head-on. He called out the nobles and officials for their unjust practices, urging them to return the fields, vineyards, olive groves, and houses to their rightful owners. Nehemiah's call for justice was a reminder that true legacy involves fairness and righteousness, not just for the present but for future generations.

We also explored the theme of integrity. Nehemiah emphasized the importance of living a life that exemplifies the gospel. He pointed out that the people of Jerusalem were being watched by the surrounding nations, and their actions were a reflection of their faith. Nehemiah called them to live in a way that honored God and demonstrated integrity. This call to integrity is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are urged to live such good lives that even their enemies cannot find fault in them.

Nehemiah's life of sacrifice was another key theme. Despite his position of privilege as the governor, Nehemiah chose not to burden the people with additional taxes or demands. Instead, he devoted himself to the work of rebuilding the wall and serving the community. This act of sacrifice was a powerful demonstration of his commitment to God and his people. Nehemiah's example reminds us that true worship involves living a life of sacrifice, setting aside our own desires for the greater good.

We concluded by reflecting on the importance of leaving a legacy that honors God. This involves not just building physical structures but creating a community that is rooted in justice, integrity, and sacrifice. As we look to the future, we are called to engage with our community, invite others into our fellowship, and live out our faith in a way that leaves a lasting impact. This is the legacy that Nehemiah sought to build, and it is the legacy that we are called to continue.

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Key Takeaways

1. Legacy is More Than Physical Structures: Legacy is not just about building walls or physical structures; it is about creating a lasting impact for future generations. Nehemiah's efforts to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem were symbolic of restoring the spiritual and moral fabric of the community. This restoration was not just about the physical walls but about addressing the injustices and moral decay within the society. [60:55]
2. Justice is Central to God's Heart: Nehemiah exposed the injustices that were rampant among the people of Jerusalem. The wealthy were exploiting the poor, taking their lands, and even enslaving them. Nehemiah's call for justice was a reminder that true legacy involves fairness and righteousness, not just for the present but for future generations. This aligns with the biblical call to seek justice and defend the oppressed. [72:31]
3. Integrity Reflects Our Faith: Nehemiah emphasized the importance of living a life that exemplifies the gospel. He pointed out that the people of Jerusalem were being watched by the surrounding nations, and their actions were a reflection of their faith. Nehemiah called them to live in a way that honored God and demonstrated integrity. This call to integrity is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are urged to live such good lives that even their enemies cannot find fault in them. [78:52]
4. Sacrifice is a Form of Worship: Nehemiah's life of sacrifice was a powerful demonstration of his commitment to God and his people. Despite his position of privilege as the governor, Nehemiah chose not to burden the people with additional taxes or demands. Instead, he devoted himself to the work of rebuilding the wall and serving the community. This act of sacrifice reminds us that true worship involves living a life of sacrifice, setting aside our own desires for the greater good. [84:27]
5. Building a Legacy of Faith: Leaving a legacy that honors God involves creating a community rooted in justice, integrity, and sacrifice. As we look to the future, we are called to engage with our community, invite others into our fellowship, and live out our faith in a way that leaves a lasting impact. This is the legacy that Nehemiah sought to build, and it is the legacy that we are called to continue. [01:29:00]
### [89:00]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[55:18] - Introduction to Nehemiah
[56:15] - Reading Nehemiah 5:14-16
[57:43] - Engage Initiative
[59:21] - Legacy and Nehemiah's Mission
[60:55] - Nehemiah's Personal Reflection
[67:59] - Injustice in Jerusalem
[72:31] - Exposing Injustice
[78:52] - Call to Integrity
[84:27] - Life of Sacrifice
[89:00] - Building a Legacy of Faith
[90:00] - Prayer and Reflection
[93:08] - Closing Prayer and Blessing

Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

What injustices did Nehemiah expose among the people of Jerusalem? ([01:09:11])
How did Nehemiah demonstrate integrity in his leadership? ([01:20:00])
What sacrifices did Nehemiah make as the governor of Judah? ([01:24:27])
According to 1 Peter 2:12, how should believers live among non-believers?

Interpretation Questions

Why was it important for Nehemiah to address the injustices before rebuilding the wall? ([01:07:59])
How does Nehemiah’s call to integrity reflect the teachings of the New Testament? ([01:18:52])
What does Nehemiah’s life of sacrifice teach us about true worship? ([01:24:27])
How can the concept of legacy in Nehemiah’s time be applied to our lives today? ([01:29:00])

Application Questions

Nehemiah exposed the injustices in Jerusalem. Are there any injustices in your community that you feel called to address? How can you take the first step? ([01:09:11])
Nehemiah emphasized living a life of integrity. Reflect on your daily actions. Are there areas where you feel you need to demonstrate more integrity? ([01:18:52])
Nehemiah made personal sacrifices for the greater good. What is one personal sacrifice you can make this week to serve your community or church? ([01:24:27])
The sermon highlighted the importance of leaving a legacy that honors God. What steps can you take to ensure that your actions today will positively impact future generations? ([01:29:00])
Nehemiah’s leadership was watched by surrounding nations. How do you think your actions reflect your faith to those around you? ([01:21:02])
The sermon mentioned the importance of engaging with the community. Is there a specific way you can invite someone into your fellowship this week? ([01:29:00])
Reflect on the concept of true worship involving sacrifice. How can you incorporate this understanding into your worship practices? ([01:24:27])

Sermon Clips

### Quotes for Outreach

1. "When we're talking about building a wall or when we're talking about having an engaged service or when we're talking about trying to invite outsiders into this place, it's not to build up a kingdom for our sake. It's not to build up something that honors us. It's an honor for us as we grow into justice and character and righteousness and kindness to take that and transfer it to the next generation." [01:29:00](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | Download vertical captioned clip)

2. "A legacy is when you leave something for the next generation. In other words, you're building great and meaningful now, but it's not meant just for now. It's meant for tomorrow as well. It's not meant just for us. It's also meant for the coming generation." [59:21](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | Download vertical captioned clip)

3. "Integrity is really character that's exemplified to the world around you. In other words, carry your life in a way that is positive to the world around you. You are being watched by the world. How do you respond to that? What does the world have to say about you? When you call yourself a Christian, what does the world think about you when you say that? What do they think about Christ when you say that?" [01:18:52](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | Download vertical captioned clip)

4. "We have the right to speak out on things. And not just an American right or whatever, a country right. But we have an admonishment from God that when we see injustice in the world, that we have a right to speak out. We have a responsibility to call those things out. And to call those things out according to what the Bible is teaching us about these things." [01:15:12](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | Download vertical captioned clip)

### Quotes for Members

1. "Nehemiah was pointing out that the foreign enemies that were around were watching the behavior of God's people and questioning why are they any different than what we do. And that's really what was going on. And that was back in that time. That the surrounding nations of Jerusalem and Judah, they were doing the exact same things that the nations around them, the pagan nations around them were doing. And so Nehemiah is pointing out that what you're doing, you're being watched. People are watching what you're doing." [01:21:36](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | Download vertical captioned clip)

2. "Nehemiah was saying, I am going to be true to my convictions and I'm going to be true to living a godly life of sacrifice. Instead, I've devoted myself to the construction of the wall and all my subordinates were gathered there for the work. We didn't buy any land. There were 150 Jews and officials as well as guests from the surrounding nations at my table. Each day, one ox, six choice sheep, some fowl or parrots, was prepared for me." [01:25:16](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | Download vertical captioned clip)

3. "Nehemiah exposed a lot of injustice that was in their hearts. Another thing that Nehemiah did is Nehemiah called for a life of integrity. But what is integrity? Integrity is really character that's exemplified to the world around you. In other words, carry your life in a way that is positive to the world around you. You are being watched by the world. How do you respond to that? What does the world have to say about you? When you call yourself a Christian, what does the world think about you when you say that? What do they think about Christ when you say that?" [01:18:52](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | Download vertical captioned clip)

4. "Nehemiah was calling them back into a life of integrity. Verse 10, Even I, as well as my brothers and my servants, have been lending them money and grain. Please, let's stop charging this interest. Return their fields, vineyards, olive groves, and houses to them immediately, along with the percentage of the money grain, new wine, and fresh oil that you have been assessing them. So he called them to integrity and called them to no longer live out this unjust way of living, but to turn and become just." [01:22:11](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | Download vertical captioned clip)

5. "When Nehemiah gets to the city, he's looking around and he notices that there are things going on in the lives and in the hearts of the people of Israel that caused him to step back and think. That those need to be fixed. It's not just about fixing the wall, but it's also about fixing our hearts. And so Nehemiah in chapter 5 really dives into that. In fact, in Nehemiah 5, Nehemiah highlights that before the wall could be finished, the lives of the remnant needed to be restored." [01:07:59](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | Download vertical captioned clip)

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