Today's reading is Nehemiah 1-2
Nehemiah had something that he was passionate about - the state that Jerusalem was in - but there seemed nothing that he could do about it. But notice how he reacted when the king spoke to him. He couldn't have expected to put on a sad face and to have the king ask him what the matter was. Life doesn't work like that. But when the opportunity arises, Nehemiah is ready. First he prays, inviting God in to the situation, and then he uses his powers as a motivational speaker to convince the king to release him and grant him safe-conduct.
We catch up with Nehemiah again in Jerusalem. Here we learn that he knows how to wait for the right time, and he knows the importance of taking stock before acting. And again we see his ability to convince people to follow him. He tells them what needs to be done, and inspires them with the story of how he was allowed to travel there, and he wins their hearts.
Some times we can try to go it alone. We'll do it our way and without any help, and that way it will be done properly. Sometimes we're not even too keen of having God helping us. We can manage - thank you!
Sometimes we think we are better than that, and we seek to get God involved in our plans. But Nehemiah knows that this is also wrong. Chapter 1 verses 8 and 9 show us that he has studied God's word, and he wants to get involved in God's plan. That's the difference. Find out what God's doing and get involved!
Nehemiah knew that rebuilding Jerusalem was within God's will, he was pushing at an open door. And when God started moving in his life, Nehemiah had no trouble convincing others to get involved too.
Tim
How often do we bottle up our emotions? Nehemiah certainly doesn't! He tells God exactly how it is and lays his requests before him. He doesn't just rant at God but expresses his respect and love and boldly asks.
Crying before the King usually ended in an unhappy ending, but Nehemiah can't contain his emotions of grief. If he had, would results have been the same? The King must have known that this was out of character for his faithful servant and seeks the problem. Result for Nehemiah!
Later in verse 20 Nehemiah isn't bothered about looking out of place in front of others. His confidence in God is far greater than worrying about self image.
Openness, boldness and confidence are the key words for me today.
Are we open & honest about our feelings in our everyday situations, knowing that our confidence is in God and we can boldly approach his throne?