Setting a Godly Example

Nehemiah 6:15-16 (NLT)

So on October 2 the wall was finished—just fifty-two days after we had begun. When our enemies and the surrounding nations heard about it, they were frightened and humiliated. They realized this work had been done with the help of our God.


Reflection

Have you ever started a big project with the lofty goal of having it completed on time, or maybe even early? I remember a work project I was part of with two other individuals. We had the knowledge, skills and tools necessary to do the job, but we lacked a few major qualities – focus and commitment. We let too many things distract us, we had too much fun in our isolated work room, and we just didn’t feel any urgency, until our boss told us quite succinctly “Get this project finished!”

How was Nehemiah able to accomplish something that seemed impossible? In his prayers, Nehemiah reminds God of His promise to Moses, that if His people return to Him (spiritually) and obey His commands (physically), God would bring them back to the place God had chosen for His name to be honored (Jerusalem). Nehemiah’s prayer was more of a reminder for Nehemiah than for God. God always remembers His promises to His people!

Then, what did Nehemiah do?

He put forth a plan to the people of Jerusalem in an effort to share his vision and to gain unity. He even prioritized the work to emphasize the importance of worship. The religious leaders and the people responded and gathered to help.

He worked with everyone else side by side, day and night, to show he was committed to doing his share and accomplishing the goal.

When things got rough and the workers became afraid, he put guards in place and made sure everyone was working in a safe environment.

And above all else, Nehemiah remained faithful to God and obedient to God’s priorities. His desire to accomplish what God was asking him to do supernaturally overshadowed the fear and intimidation he felt from those who were trying to distract, and even destroy him. If we can stay focused on God’s calling for our lives, and fulfill that calling through our obedience, we have the opportunity for great blessings and to set a holy example for future generations.


Action Step

When you pray, do you set aside time to listen for God’s response? Do you actively seek to hear God’s voice calling you to what He has for you? Try to make listening to God part of your daily practice during your prayer time. And if He calls you to do something, ACT on it!


Prayer
 
Heavenly Father, I truly want to do Your will. Please help me remember that You always keep Your promises. In all things, help me to stay focused on You and what You are calling me toward. I want to be part of a movement that brings honor to You in the here and now, and sets the tone for our future generations. In Jesus’ name, amen.