Nehemiah 9:5-8
The spiritual leaders of Israel called for all the people to: “…’Arise, bless the LORD your God forever and ever!…” (5b). Worship of God is key to our perception of life. Without this we cannot see clearly through the fog of life’s varying circumstances. Their praise is recorded and begins by exalting God’s name, that is, Who He is: “…May Your glorious name be blessed And exalted above all blessings and praise!” (5c) They then bless God for His power as seen in creation: “You alone are the LORD. You have made the heavens, The heaven of heavens with all their lights, The earth and everything that is on it, the seas and everything that is in them…” (6a-c). They continue to bless the LORD by praising God for what he did for His people: “You are the LORD God, Who chose Abram…” (7a). They acknowledged God for removing him [Abram] and transforming him [Abraham] and keeping His word to him [covenant]. He gave to Abraham’s descendants what belonged to others: “…To give it to his descendants. And you have fulfilled Your promise, Because You are righteous.” (8c). What God did for Abraham, he did for his seed or following generations. By blessing God for Who He is as revealed in His creative acts and loving redemptive work, His righteousness is brought front and center to our minds restoring a healthy perception essential to our spiritual life and a healthy example for future generations to follow.