For the last several weeks, we have been studying through the book of Nehemiah. This is the record of how God used Nehemiah to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem around 445 BC. We have learned a great deal about how God uses people to accomplish His purpose in the world.

First, we noticed that Nehmiah's heart broke for the condition of his people in Jerusalem. The remnant that returned to Jerusalem after the Babylonian destruction in 586 BC were struggling in a city without walls, a temple, or anything else that represented God's presence with them. Threfore, Nehemiah's heart broke over the condition of his people. They were, in essence without hope. Have our hearts been broken by the condition of people around us who seemingly have little or no hope?

Second, we learned that Nehemiah's concern led him to action. He was afraid when he finally approached the king to ask for permission to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. However, his deep concern led him to ask anyway. He could have been put to death and his fears were real. Yet, he did it anyway. Does our concern for the purpose of God call us to action in spite of our fear?

Is God developing a dream inside of you? Is God creating a picture of a better future for those around you that He is calling you to act so that His purpose may be fulfilled? My guess is that God is calling us out to be a part of His restoration through Christ in the world in which we live. We move out in spite of our fears to offer the hope of Christ to the world around us in love.

This week, we are heading into Chapter three of Nehemiah. This is a list of names of people who worked on the wall and the various sections that they worked to repair. Be careful not to get bogged down in the repition. For, I have found that God has great truths us as we read Chapter three. I invite you to try to pick out some reurring themes in chapter three. Then, imagine how God would use us for His purpose.

Thanks for Journeying with us!