Nehemiah begins to oversee the repopulating of the land. He calls for a reading of the record of those who returned from exile. Again, it is a reminder of all that God has done to bless His people. Ezra, the scribe, is then called to read from the book of God's Law given to Moses. The people stood from morning until midday to hear God's Word read and explained to them. The day was declared to be holy to the Lord, a day of rejoicing in what God's strength had provided for them. At this time, they also celebrated the Feast of Tabernacles, a reminder of their time in the wilderness after leaving Egypt.
In Ezra's account we read of a great national revival and repentance over the matter of intermarriage with those God forbid. Here in Nehemiah's account, we read of the same matter. In this record, we have the words used to describe the attitude of those repenting. These were not folks sorry for what they needed to do; they were not grudgingly putting away their sin. These folks are responsive to God, rejoicing over His favor, and sweetly submitting to His wishes - no matter what the personal ramifications may be.
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