They read from the book, from the Law of God, clearly, and they gave the sense, so that the people understood the reading.
All of us have access to the original Bible in Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic. And very very few people read and speak Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic. The only way we understand anything is if the Word is put into the words that we know.
Translations come not only in many languages, but a single language may have word-for-word, idea, and paraphrase translations. Before you get caught up in "The [insert your favorite] translation is the BEST!" arguments understand what you are reading. Beside the listeners in Jerusalem stood Ezra, Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, and the Levites. Beside you, as you read or listen, stand the men and women who are helping you understand the Word of God.
If Jozabad helps you understand better than Maaseiah. So be it. If you would rather have Shabbethai. Sounds fine to me. As long as they are honest Men of God who are devoted to the Word and to God.
And lastly, do not confuse the helper with the LORD. They are there to help you understand. Understand the difference between their words and the Word of the LORD.
And as we rejoice, do so together. Not only share our burdens. Not only share what materials we have. Share our voices. Cry out to the LORD as one voice.
There is something romantic about the idea of changing the evil man or woman through love. There are all the romance books about the good man saving the bad girl. Or the good girl saving the bad man.
The reality is that you should make sure you have saved them BEFORE you marry them. Because the usual action once you have committed your lives together is that the influence usually goes the other way. Evil spreads easier than good in a marriage.
Nehemiah shook out the folds of his garments. You probably go through all the pockets of your pants before putting them in the laundry. I suppose a better example would be to empty your wallet.
LORD, help me to shake out what I have for others. Shake me out and empty me to do your will.
And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting.
We are never alone for God is with us and within us. Though we may not have the words to speak to God, the Spirit will raise up our prayers for us. Though we may not have the strength, the Spirit will empower us for action. Though we may not have the knowledge, the Spirit will lead us to the truth.
