WEBVTT 00:00:02.399 --> 00:00:06.000 Good morning, I'm Dan, and welcome to your daily walk. 00:00:06.240 --> 00:00:13.759 On Sunday, Pastor Aaron mentioned six verses in Nehemiah chapter 9 that speak to God's compassion and mercy. 00:00:14.160 --> 00:00:23.199 We love to talk about these kinds of attributes of the God we serve, but the overarching theme of the chapter is confession and repentance. 00:00:23.600 --> 00:00:31.199 Verses 29 through 31 speak of how the Israelites sinned against God's commandments rather than living by them. 00:00:31.679 --> 00:00:36.960 In fact, it says the people stiffened their neck and would not obey. 00:00:37.200 --> 00:00:42.640 The text goes on to say that God gave them over to the rulers of other nations. 00:00:42.880 --> 00:00:53.759 But verse 31 says, Nevertheless, in your great mercy you did not forsake them, for you are a gracious and merciful God. 00:00:54.560 --> 00:01:03.600 And it's this verse that reminded me of other Bible characters who reached tremendous lows before turning back to God in repentance. 00:01:03.920 --> 00:01:05.920 People like the prodigal son. 00:01:06.319 --> 00:01:19.120 The Bible says he squandered his property and reckless living, but when he finally came to his senses, he went to his father, saying, I have sinned against heaven and before you. 00:01:55.680 --> 00:02:02.640 Zacchaeus, on the other hand, upon meeting Jesus, repented from extorting and cheating his own people. 00:02:03.439 --> 00:02:04.640 How about you? 00:02:05.040 --> 00:02:12.000 Have you ever run from God and experienced low to the point you finally repented and were restored by him? 00:02:12.639 --> 00:02:21.840 We should be thankful and bow in worship to God, who has dealt mercifully with us, rather than giving us what we deserve. 00:02:22.159 --> 00:02:33.599 I close with Psalm eighty-six five, which says, You, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you. 00:02:33.919 --> 00:02:35.680 Have a great day.