“Actin Like A Nehemiah”
Today’s writing brings us to Nehemiah. Some individuals scroll past problems. Other people sigh. Nehemiah? He prayed. He prayed big, seeking clarity and direction from God. Then he stepped out with confidence.
If you don’t know Nehemiah’s story, here’s the quick version. He grew up in Babylon because his parents were probably among the exiles taken from Jerusalem. But even far from home, his heart never left the city. So when he heard the walls of Jerusalem were broken, it felt like his own heart was breaking too.
You may be like me and think, why is he so bothered by an area he doesn’t live in and people he doesn’t know? For perspective, think back to 9/11. We weren’t anywhere near New York, but we wept for our fellow Americans and the condition of that city. Katrina-our eyes ached with tears as we watched our home state lie in ruins with utter destruction. That was Nehemiah. His fellow people. His home. But, before we swing hammers at this story, let’s focus on his prayer…..take a moment to read Nehemiah 1:5-11…..I’ll wait here.
What did you see in the prayer? Adoration of who God is? Confession of any sins? Thanksgiving for his promises? Supplication for requests?
Nehemiah’s prayer modeled the ACTS prayer that brought him into a conversation with God versus jumping straight into overwhelmed requests for a quick answer. His prayer included praise, honesty, gratitude, then requests.
What if we began every prayer as Nehemiah did….God, You are enough…You are a great God who keeps his covenant of love….I confess I am self focused too often and push prayer away at times….I am so thankful You never grow weary of me and always welcome me back….Lord, let your ear be attentive to the requests I have and may I have a desire to glorify You for what You will do in my life.
Nehemiah took time to first acknowledge the awesomeness of the Creator of all. He then showed true humility by owning up to sin he knew was present, then took time to thank God for so many things and lastly….notice….lastly, he gave his requests to God.
I want to pray like Nehemiah. Adoring God first, Confessing second, Thanking third, and Requesting last. If you don’t know the rest of the story, Nehemiah was equipped with courage and clarity for the task at hand when he landed on an amen. He knew God heard his prayers and he stepped forward in faith.
What wall are you seeing? Broken relationship? Lengthy timelines? Spiritual laziness? Discomfort? Push up your sleeves and get to praying. The Lord’s ear is attentive to those who call out.
