Observing how the shepherds, King Herod, and the wise men responded to news about the newborn King can help prepare us for Christmas.

Jesus' coming as the light of the world was an event foretold long ago and still being felt and lived out today in every believer.

In chapter 4, Nehemiah's response to external threats and opposition provides the church a template for how we can handle spiritual adversity through prayer, action, and trust in God.

Even the 'boring' chapters are God's word and can be gleaned for important truth. In the list of builders in Nehemiah 3, we find the mundane work of common Israelites raised to divine labour when done according to God's purposes.

After four months of praying and waiting for God's timing, Nehemiah makes his request of the king and and receives provisions and protects as God moves the heart of the king.

The book of Nehemiah opens with brokenness, as Nehemiah the cupbearer learns of the ruinous state of Jerusalem. In this brokenness and sorrow begins the rebuilding process as Nehemiah rightfully starts in prayer.

Psalm 119 praises the power and beauty of God's Word. Reading from Charles Bridges' "Exposition of Psalm 119" (1827), verses 59 to 60 highlight the need for self-examination, repentance, and urgent obedience to God's testimonies.

"Exposition of Psalm 119" by Charles Bridges: https://gracegems.org/26/bridges3.htm

Thanksgiving is far more than an annual holiday weekend. It is found throughout in Scripture and meant to be part of a Christian lifestyle, grateful for God's abundant provisions.

Giving is not transactional; it is relational. It is an act of worship as we reflect the generosity our God has shown us.

One of the most familiar and often one of the most neglected part of the Christian life, prayer is a key aspect of our relationship with "our Father", reorientating ourselves toward God's glory and our daily reliance on Him.