Nehemiah: God's Invitation to RebuildSample
Throughout history God has called people to rise up and do the work he has for them. From Abraham to Moses, Esthe, to the disciples, each one was called to step out from where they were to follow him. In Nehemiah, the leaders stepped up and led the people by example as they chose to live in the city of Jerusalem. This wasn’t an easy choice. Living inside the gates of a city, amidst an agriculturally dependent culture was challenging. Moving to an unpopulated place was also hard. But God had set Israel apart, to draw others to him.
Our call, as New Testament believers, is different. In his final words here on earth, Jesus told us to go and make disciples of all nations. This command is for every believer. We live in this time and place "for such a time as this." God has prepared good works for us to do. Now it’s time to obey.
Maybe you don’t know where to begin. Start as Nehemiah did—pray. Ask for guidance and a heart to follow God’s leading. Look to see where God is moving and join him. God has a place for each one of us. Nothing is more rewarding than doing the work God set for us.
Prayer: Father, thank you for the good works you’ve planned for me. As I go through my day, give me eyes to see the people you place in my path, ears to listen to those who need a friend, and words that come from you. Amen.
Bonus Reading: Genesis 12:1-3; Exodus 3:10-12; Esther 4:13-14; Matthew 1:18-21; 9:9
About this Plan
Often touted as a “leadership” book, Nehemiah is rich in application. The way Nehemiah led the exiled Israelites in Persia to rebuild and reoccupy Jerusalem was as much an exercise in surrender and supplication as it was leadership and strategy. In this 21-day reading plan, we’ll look to Nehemiah as a role model in prayer, obedience, perseverance, and, yes, leadership.
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