SCRIPTURES:
So on October 2 the wall was finished - just fifty-two days after we had begun. When our enemies and the surrounding nations heard about it, they were frightened and humiliated. They realized this work had been done with the help of our God.
Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were interpreting for the people said to them, “Don’t mourn or weep on such a day as this! For today is a sacred day before the Lord your God.” For the people had all been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law.
And Nehemiah continued, “Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength!”
DEVOTIONAL:
The wall is finished - and the nations notice: “This had been accomplished with the help of our God.” That’s what blessing does: it points beyond you. But the real climax isn’t construction - it’s consecration. The Word is read. The people weep. Then they’re told to rejoice, because joy becomes strength. Here’s the miracle: burden led to brokenness, brokenness led to obedience, obedience led to renewal.
Today, don’t just celebrate “results.” Celebrate God’s nearness. Let joy strengthen you for the next assignment.
QUESTIONS:
1. What has God rebuilt in me during these 21 days?
2. What habits must continue after the fast ends?
3. Who do I need to encourage with what God has done?
PRAYER:
Father, thank You for meeting me. Thank You for cleansing me, strengthening me, and leading me. Let Your joy be my strength - today and
always. Amen.
FASTING FOCUS:
End today with worship. Don’t rush back to normal - carry the fire forward.