Returning to God’s Ways

Opening Verse

“We have dealt very corruptly against thee, and have not kept the commandments, nor the statutes, nor the judgments, which thou commandedst thy servant Moses.”
— Nehemiah 1:7 (KJV)

Introduction

Nehemiah’s heart was broken over the state of Jerusalem. The walls were in ruins, and the people had strayed far from God’s commandments. He confessed that their troubles were not accidental—they had turned away from God’s laws. But Nehemiah knew something powerful: repentance brings restoration.

Have you ever felt distant from God, knowing you’ve neglected His Word? The good news is that when we turn back to Him, He is always ready to restore.

Devotional Story

A man once lived a life close to God. He prayed daily, read Scripture, and was active in his church. But over time, distractions crept in—work, entertainment, and worldly pleasures. Prayer became occasional, and sin became easier to justify.

One day, he looked around and realized—his spiritual walls were broken. He no longer felt God’s presence, and his life felt empty. Like Nehemiah, he confessed, “Lord, I have not kept Your commandments. I have drifted.”

But just as Nehemiah sought God’s mercy, so did this man. He repented, turned back to prayer, and sought God’s ways once more. Slowly, God restored him, rebuilding his faith brick by brick.

What This Means

Drifting from God doesn’t happen overnight, and neither does restoration. But the moment we recognize our need for Him and confess, He is faithful to forgive. Nehemiah didn’t just grieve over sin—he took action to restore what was broken.

If your spiritual life feels distant, don’t ignore it. Come back to God. He is waiting to rebuild what has been lost.

Think About This

• Have you been neglecting God’s Word and commandments?
• What areas in your life need spiritual rebuilding?
• Are you ready to return to God with a repentant heart?

Prayer

Lord, I confess that I have not always kept Your ways. I have let distractions pull me away, but today, I return to You. Help me to rebuild my faith, restore my love for Your Word, and strengthen my walk with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
— 1 John 1:9 (KJV)