Burdened to Build: Nehemiah's Call to Action
Summary
### Summary
Greetings, Hope City! Today, we delved into the book of Nehemiah, exploring the themes of burden, boldness, and building. Nehemiah's story is a powerful example of how God can use our burdens to drive us towards bold action and ultimately build something greater for His glory. Nehemiah, a cupbearer to King Artaxerxes, was deeply troubled by the news of Jerusalem's ruined walls. His burden led him to fast, pray, and seek God's favor, which in turn gave him the boldness to ask the king for permission and resources to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.
We discussed how burdens can be a divine calling, pushing us out of our comfort zones and into action. Nehemiah's burden for his people made him uncomfortable in his comfortable position, leading him to take bold steps. Similarly, we are called to have a burden for our city, Savannah, and to pray for boldness to act on that burden. This burden should drive us to pray for favor with those in authority and to seek God's guidance in all our endeavors.
We also touched on the importance of unity and vision within the church. Just as Nehemiah needed builders to accomplish the task, we need each other to fulfill God's vision for Hope City. This vision includes not just the physical building of new campuses but also the spiritual building of our community. We must be ready to face opposition, as Nehemiah did, but with God's favor and our collective effort, we can overcome any obstacles.
In conclusion, we are called to be burdened, bold, and builders for God's kingdom. As we enter a season of prayer, let's focus on praying for our city, our personal boldness, and the builders of the vision. God has great plans for Hope City, and together, we can see His vision come to fruition.
### Key Takeaways
1. Burden as a Divine Calling: Nehemiah's burden for Jerusalem's ruined walls drove him to fast, pray, and seek God's favor. Similarly, our burdens can be a divine calling, pushing us out of our comfort zones and into action. When we are deeply troubled by the state of our community or the needs around us, it can be a sign that God is calling us to do something about it. [37:57]
2. Boldness in the Face of Opposition: Nehemiah's boldness to ask King Artaxerxes for permission and resources to rebuild Jerusalem's walls is a testament to the power of prayer and faith. We too must pray for boldness to act on our burdens, even when facing opposition. Boldness is not the absence of fear but the presence of faith in God's promises. [38:35]
3. Unity and Vision in Building: Just as Nehemiah needed builders to accomplish the task, we need each other to fulfill God's vision for Hope City. Unity and a shared vision are crucial for any community endeavor. When we come together with a common purpose, we can achieve great things for God's kingdom. [46:47]
4. Facing Opposition with Faith: Nehemiah faced significant opposition from figures like Samballot and Tobiah, yet he remained steadfast. We too will face blockers and haters when we attempt to do God's work. However, with faith and perseverance, we can overcome these challenges and continue building what God has called us to build. [01:03:41]
5. Prayer as a Foundation: As we enter a season of prayer, we must focus on praying for our city, our personal boldness, and the builders of the vision. Prayer is the foundation that supports all our efforts. When we align our prayers with God's focus, we invite His favor and guidance into our endeavors. [01:11:16]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[33:46] - Introduction and Personal Story
[36:46] - Nehemiah's Burden
[39:19] - Aligning with the Vision
[41:47] - Standing Fast and Faithful
[43:18] - Messages Within the Message
[45:35] - Relaunching the Vision
[49:07] - Regrouping and Refocusing
[51:48] - Experiencing Revival
[53:13] - Nehemiah's Burden, Boldness, and Builders
[58:12] - Boldness in the Presence of Enemies
[01:01:05] - Builders and Diplomatic Immunity
[01:03:41] - Facing Blockers and Haters
[01:08:14] - Finding Comfort in Labor
[01:11:16] - Season of Prayer and Focus
[01:14:16] - Encouragement and Endurance
[01:16:03] - Invitation to Accept Christ
[01:17:49] - Closing Prayer and Blessing
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Nehemiah 1:1-4 - "The words of Nehemiah son of Hacaliah: In the month of Kislev in the twentieth year, while I was in the citadel of Susa, Hanani, one of my brothers, came from Judah with some other men, and I questioned them about the Jewish remnant that had survived the exile, and also about Jerusalem. They said to me, 'Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire.' When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven."
2. Nehemiah 2:1-5 - "In the month of Nisan in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when wine was brought for him, I took the wine and gave it to the king. I had not been sad in his presence before, so the king asked me, 'Why does your face look so sad when you are not ill? This can be nothing but sadness of heart.' I was very much afraid, but I said to the king, 'May the king live forever! Why should my face not look sad when the city where my ancestors are buried lies in ruins, and its gates have been destroyed by fire?' The king said to me, 'What is it you want?' Then I prayed to the God of heaven, and I answered the king, 'If it pleases the king and if your servant has found favor in his sight, let him send me to the city in Judah where my ancestors are buried so that I can rebuild it.'"
3. Isaiah 58:12 - "Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the age-old foundations; you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls, Restorer of Streets with Dwellings."
#### Observation Questions
1. What was Nehemiah's initial reaction upon hearing the news about Jerusalem's walls? (Nehemiah 1:4)
2. How did Nehemiah approach the king with his request to rebuild Jerusalem's walls? (Nehemiah 2:1-5)
3. What promise is given in Isaiah 58:12 regarding rebuilding and restoration?
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Nehemiah's burden for Jerusalem led him to fast and pray before taking any action? (Nehemiah 1:4)
2. How does Nehemiah's boldness in approaching the king reflect his faith in God's promises? (Nehemiah 2:1-5)
3. What does Isaiah 58:12 suggest about the role of God's people in restoring and rebuilding communities?
#### Application Questions
1. Reflecting on Nehemiah's burden for Jerusalem, what burdens do you feel for your own community or city? How can you turn these burdens into action? [37:57]
2. Nehemiah prayed for favor before approaching the king. How can you incorporate prayer into your daily decisions and actions, especially when facing challenges? [38:35]
3. Nehemiah faced opposition from figures like Samballot and Tobiah. Have you ever faced opposition when trying to do something you felt called to do? How did you handle it, and what can you learn from Nehemiah's response? [01:03:41]
4. The sermon emphasized the importance of unity and vision within the church. How can you contribute to building unity and a shared vision in your church community? [46:47]
5. As we enter a season of prayer, what specific prayers can you offer for your city, your personal boldness, and the builders of the vision? How can you make prayer a foundational part of your efforts? [01:11:16]
6. Nehemiah's story shows that boldness is not the absence of fear but the presence of faith. Can you think of a situation where you need to act boldly despite your fears? How can you rely on your faith to take that step?
7. The sermon mentioned that burdens can push us out of our comfort zones. Is there a specific area in your life where you feel God is calling you to step out of your comfort zone? How can you prepare yourself to take that step? [37:57]
Devotional
Day 1: Burden as a Divine Calling
Nehemiah's burden for Jerusalem's ruined walls drove him to fast, pray, and seek God's favor. Similarly, our burdens can be a divine calling, pushing us out of our comfort zones and into action. When we are deeply troubled by the state of our community or the needs around us, it can be a sign that God is calling us to do something about it. Nehemiah's discomfort in his comfortable position as a cupbearer led him to take bold steps for the sake of his people. This teaches us that our burdens are not just emotional weights but divine nudges towards purposeful action. [37:57]
Nehemiah 1:4-5 (ESV): "As soon as I heard these words I sat down and wept and mourned for days, and I continued fasting and praying before the God of heaven. And I said, 'O Lord God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments.'"
Reflection: What burden has God placed on your heart recently? How can you begin to take action on this burden today?
Day 2: Boldness in the Face of Opposition
Nehemiah's boldness to ask King Artaxerxes for permission and resources to rebuild Jerusalem's walls is a testament to the power of prayer and faith. We too must pray for boldness to act on our burdens, even when facing opposition. Boldness is not the absence of fear but the presence of faith in God's promises. Nehemiah's courage came from his deep trust in God, which enabled him to take risks for the sake of his calling. This teaches us that true boldness is rooted in our relationship with God and our confidence in His plans. [38:35]
Joshua 1:9 (ESV): "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
Reflection: What is one area in your life where you need to act boldly? How can you rely on God's promises to overcome your fears?
Day 3: Unity and Vision in Building
Just as Nehemiah needed builders to accomplish the task, we need each other to fulfill God's vision for Hope City. Unity and a shared vision are crucial for any community endeavor. When we come together with a common purpose, we can achieve great things for God's kingdom. Nehemiah's success was not just due to his leadership but also to the collective effort of the people who shared his vision. This teaches us the importance of working together in unity to accomplish God's plans. [46:47]
Ephesians 4:3-4 (ESV): "Eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call."
Reflection: How can you contribute to the unity and vision of your church community? What specific actions can you take to support the collective mission?
Day 4: Facing Opposition with Faith
Nehemiah faced significant opposition from figures like Samballot and Tobiah, yet he remained steadfast. We too will face blockers and haters when we attempt to do God's work. However, with faith and perseverance, we can overcome these challenges and continue building what God has called us to build. Nehemiah's story reminds us that opposition is inevitable, but it is our faith and determination that will see us through. This teaches us to remain focused on God's calling despite the obstacles we encounter. [01:03:41]
2 Timothy 1:7 (ESV): "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control."
Reflection: What opposition are you currently facing in your efforts to follow God's calling? How can you strengthen your faith to persevere through these challenges?
Day 5: Prayer as a Foundation
As we enter a season of prayer, we must focus on praying for our city, our personal boldness, and the builders of the vision. Prayer is the foundation that supports all our efforts. When we align our prayers with God's focus, we invite His favor and guidance into our endeavors. Nehemiah's story shows us that prayer was his first response to his burden and his ongoing strategy throughout the rebuilding process. This teaches us the importance of making prayer the cornerstone of our actions and decisions. [01:11:16]
Colossians 4:2 (ESV): "Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving."
Reflection: How can you make prayer a more integral part of your daily life? What specific things will you pray for this week to align with God's vision for your community?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "I don't tell people about God because I don't want them to go to hell. I tell people about God because he's good, because he's amazing, because he saved me. And I'm so comfortable in my relationship with God. Remember, I told you, I didn't grow up in church. I got saved. I got saved for real. And God was so good to me. He rescued me when I didn't deserve to be rescued." [54:59] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "When you stand fast, you got to stand faithful. I don't know who this is for because I didn't say this last service. But we stand fast. We stand ready. And there's a strategy in all of this. There's a strategy. And what Pastor Corey's been doing, because oftentimes when a series of messages is given, there's this overwhelming thought. There's this singular focus that we should all be able to tune into." [42:42] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "When you get to this place, reanimating is to go back and do the works. Remember Jesus said, I love you, but I need you to go back and do your first works. I need you to reanimate, and I need you to get back into the vision. I'm not talking about Pastor Corey's vision. I'm talking about God's vision for your life, and God's vision for this church, and God's vision for us as a collective." [51:48] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "You have to, the Bible says that everything in the old Testament was written for our learning. You have to see Jerusalem at Savannah and you have to see the city of Jerusalem at Savannah. And you have to see the Jerusalem is pooler and you have to see Savannah. Jerusalem is the next place you go, whether it be Woodbine, whether it be up to South Carolina, whether wherever you go." [59:37] (15 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Listen, what we do doesn't save us, but we get saved to do something. And everything we do isn't in the four walls. I was talking to a guy after last service and he's a business owner. And I told him, don't, don't, I don't want to come in here. Don't want this. Don't want this platform. We need Christian lawyers and we need Christian police officers and we need Christian plumbers and we need Christian bakers." [01:09:41] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "But Pastor Corey, he's been taking you on a journey recently. Hopefully you've been paying attention and catching up. He's been taking you on a journey, and he's been retooling you. He's been shifting you. He's been trying to right the ship a little bit, and point it towards this designated course. And now you're launching a second campus in Pooler. I'd give God a hand for that right there." [39:54] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "It's hard to have a burden for something or someone you didn't birth or haven't spent adequate time with. Now, see, most of us didn't birth this vision. So the only other option we have is to spend time with this vision. You have to begin to spend time with this vision. In order to have a burden for it. And we're going to see as we study further." [45:35] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "And so when I think of refocusing I think the vision just can become a little bit blurry you notice I keep taking my glasses off I'm still new to wearing glasses and so these are supposed to be transition lenses but I have to get used to it and so I have the big progressive okay not transition progressive I should have her preach so no but I could see the big picture in this room but then if I need to see a small detail." [50:25] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "And so Nehemiah two, he's now with his people. He says, now I said unto them, the builders, you know, very well what trouble we're in. Jerusalem lies in ruins. Savannah has lied in ruins and Pooler has lied in ruins and Georgia has lied in ruins, but his gates and his gates have been destroyed by fire. Let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem and end this disgrace." [01:01:05] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "And so I want you to pray for three things during this time of prayer. You should pray this every day anyways. But the first one is I want you to pray for Savannah, Georgia. I want you to ask the Holy Spirit to give you a burden for Savannah that rivals your pastors. It's going to be hard, but I want you to try to have a bigger burden for your city than Pastor Corey and Tamika." [01:11:16] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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