"For I was the king's cupbearer".

08-02-2010, tonight at FMO Monday Nights, (For Men Only) a Bible study held every Monday, 7pm at Calvary Chapel Montebello ( have to plug it ) let's try this again, tonight we began a 12 week study on the Book of Nehemiah, it follows Ezra in the Old Testament.

Well, as I pre read the 1st chapter I found that the author re-iterates of Nehemiah "For I was the king's cupbearer".

Many scholars believe that Ezra was the author of Nehemiah, one of the arguments was that Ezra was a Priest and Nehemiah way a layman, so another words he was just a employee in service to a large corporation or the King Artaxerxes.

In an effort to better understand Nehemiah, and find the deep truths that God had for me as well some practical application, I envisioned Nehemiah as myself bound by my service to my employer for the financing of my basic needs, more enslaved because as many Americans, I am just one paycheck away from being homeless, not Hope less. This all takes place in Babylon which very much represents the World and how as Christians we daily go out into the world and work for the King. Nehemiah even in the mist of his stint in captivity managed to maintain his obedience to the commandments of the Lord. This is an encouragement to me as a cupbearer of sorts, that I to can still be diligent to my calling in spite of my geographical location and daily bondage, if you will in Babylon/the greater San Gabriel Valley.

And as we see news of the distress and reproach of the people of Jerusalem, Nehemiah's heart is broken for the condition of Gods people and the temple. But, I have to be to work by 8am that means I have to get to bed early, because I need my beauty sleep, besides what can I do?

Ones rationalization of this scenario is often based on their understanding of who God is in their own lives and social economical status. I must work to live, but I am not defined by my work but more my willingness to submit to power and influence of God by way of the Holy Spirit. Nehemiah is a perfect example for us as laymen, and the ability we all have to be used of God in daily service, often times stretched but not broken, weary but not wiped out! May God grant us the ability to see beyond our needs, may HE break my heart for what breaks HIS.

Nehemiah also gives us an example on the importance of prayer in the life of a believer, any prompting of God should always be followed by prayer to God for direction and guidance. So on that note I would ask you to pray for the lay-men of Montebello that we might be men of Honor, willing to lay-down our lives in service to the King of Kings! Be Blessed!