Creating an ImpactSample

Pray!

Nehemiah identified with his purpose but before he could act on it, he prayed about it. Before engaging with his purpose, he enveloped it with prayer. When we study the life of Nehemiah, every time he needed direction, or when he faced threats or discouragement, we find that he prayed. Prayer was his foundation. If faith is a vehicle, then prayer is the fuel.

Let us break up one of his prayers and learn from it. Read Neh 1:5-11.

v 5a - adoration and acknowledgement of how great God is; 

v 5b - a meditation on the character of God; 

vv 6, 7 - confession of sins not just at an individual level, but also for corporate sin; 

vv 8-10 - reminding God of His promises; 

v 11 - specific intercession and supplication for others and for personal next steps.

Prayer is not a superstitious hobby but a vital habit for sustenance, survival and success. Prayer is the acknowledgement of our limited ability and expressing our dependence on our God who is unlimited. Prayer is trusting God with all our hearts instead of leaning on our own understanding.

Jesus, being the Son of God, did nothing without praying. His ministry was birthed in prayer, run by prayer and culminated in prayer. The Bible records that He prayed very early in the morning and often late at night. We have to pray without ceasing. Prayer helps us not to fall into temptation. There can be no impact without prayer. Nehemiah understood this truth and practised it as a lifestyle.

Those in the corporate arena are usually intellectually well equipped. The only way we can influence them is when we carry the anointing and favour of God and are equipped by His wisdom.

These attributes are an outcome of prayer. Fervent prayer produces phenomenal results. When we pray, we invite God into our situations. Prayer aligns the human spirit to the divine will of God.

Dear Lord, before starting a project, help us to pray and commit it into Your hands. Help us to keep on praying till we complete it successfully by Your grace and wisdom. Amen