“They found written in the law how the Lord had commanded through Moses that the sons of Israel should live in booths during the feast of the seventh month.”—Nehemiah 8:14 NASB

During the time of Nehemiah, the Jews discovered they had not been observing the Feast of Tabernacles (Booths). They realized why it was an important celebration. It was instituted by God as one of His “appointed times” (Leviticus 23:2), a yearly opportunity to remember what He had done for them. It was a reminder not to trust in earthly possessions, but to make it a priority to seek God and His Kingdom. During this feast, they were to build temporary dwellings and live in them for seven days, followed by a solemn assembly. They also were to give to God from the harvest He had given to them! No one was to appear before Him empty-handed. They were to bring offerings beyond their normal tithes and offerings. As they honored God with their gifts, He promised to bless them in special ways. The Feast of Tabernacles celebration begins tonight at sundown. It presents powerful principles of God promising blessings to those who humble themselves before Him. Remember all that He has done, and bring Him offerings from His bountiful blessings. Don’t let the Feast of Tabernacles pass you by. Stop and think about all that God has done for you! Renew your commitment to seek Him first. Depend on Him to meet your needs and solve your problems. And don’t appear before Him empty-handed. Make offerings from your time, talent, and treasure. Invest your resources in His Kingdom.

Reflection Question: Reflect on the ways God has blessed you this past year.

“All the days of the desponding and afflicted are made evil [by anxious thoughts and foreboding], but he who has a glad heart has a continual feast [regardless of circumstances].”—Proverbs 15:15 

A recent study revealed that pessimists are much more likely to develop depression. One of the conclusions was that some people “react to distressing life events by experiencing emotions such as anger, anxiety, and sadness.” People with a pessimistic view of life are more likely to be discouraged and filled with dark emotions. The Bible tells us that when we are depressed, everything can seem evil. But when our hearts are filled with joy and gladness, depression lifts. If we have glad hearts, all life can be “a continual feast.” This implies that we experience God’s presence in everything we do. There is no need for anxiety, fear, or doubt, but God can give us His joy in every situation. Right now, do you feel pessimistic about the future? About the challenges you face? Are you plagued with doubts? Remember that His Word promises that doubt can lead to a life filled with “anxious thoughts and foreboding.” The Bible tells us that God wants to deliver you from doubt, anxiety, pessimism, and depression. If you trust Him, your life can be a “continual feast,” and He can fill your heart with gladness. Don’t let your heart be anxious. Trust in God. Let Him take away your fears and doubts and replace them with hope. Draw on the presence of His Spirit to give you His joy and peace.

Reflection Question: What situations are trying to steal your peace right now?