Embracing God's Call: Nehemiah's Journey of Purpose
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. It's wonderful to see our church family gathered here today. If you're a guest, we're thrilled to have you and hope you'll return next Sunday to meet our pastors, Pastor Mike and Rhonda. My name is Angie Gergen, and I'm honored to share today's message titled "God Chooses You." We'll be diving into the book of Nehemiah, a story rich with lessons on leadership, community, and resilience.
Nehemiah's story begins with him serving as a cupbearer to King Artaxerxes of Persia. Despite his high position, Nehemiah's heart was deeply troubled when he heard from his friend Hanani about the dire state of Jerusalem. The walls were broken, the gates burned, and the people were vulnerable. This news drove Nehemiah to mourn, fast, and pray for days, seeking God's intervention. His prayers evolved from asking God to send someone to fix the situation to volunteering himself for the task. This shift in perspective is crucial; spending time in God's presence can transform our prayers and align us with His will.
Nehemiah's story teaches us that God often places us in strategic positions, even if we don't realize it at first. Nehemiah's role as a cupbearer gave him access to the king, which he used to gain permission, protection, and resources to rebuild Jerusalem's walls. This shows that our actions must partner with our prayers. Nehemiah didn't just pray; he had a plan and was ready to act on it.
As Nehemiah began the work, he faced opposition from figures like Samballot and Tobiah, who mocked and tried to discourage him. However, Nehemiah's response was rooted in faith and resilience. He declared that the God of heaven would prosper their efforts and that the enemies had no part in their mission. This teaches us that opposition is to be expected, but it should not deter us from God's work.
In Nehemiah chapter 3, we see a beautiful picture of community and collaboration. Various groups and families worked on different sections of the wall, each contributing their skills and labor. This "next to" principle emphasizes the importance of who we do life with. We need godly friends, mentors, and encouragers to build something of lasting value. It's not just about individual effort but collective action.
Nehemiah also highlights the importance of leadership. He assessed the situation quietly, formulated a plan, and then rallied the people to work. His leadership was marked by prayer, strategic planning, and the ability to inspire others. He knew that building the wall was not just a physical task but a spiritual mission that required both construction and defense. The workers had tools in one hand and weapons in the other, symbolizing the dual nature of building and battling in our spiritual lives.
As the work progressed, the opposition intensified. The enemies conspired to attack and create confusion, but Nehemiah and his people responded with prayer and vigilance. They set a watch day and night, demonstrating the need for constant spiritual readiness. Nehemiah's leadership ensured that everyone was in the right place, doing the right work, and supporting each other.
In Nehemiah chapter 6, the enemy made a final attempt to distract Nehemiah, but he remained focused, saying, "I am doing a great work, so I cannot come down." This statement encapsulates the essence of resilience and consistency. Nehemiah's work was not just about rebuilding a wall; it was about restoring a community and fulfilling God's purpose.
As we conclude, I want to remind you that God chooses you. He has placed you in specific situations for a reason. Whether it's leading, building, or battling, God has equipped you for the task. The question is, how will you respond? Will you engage wholeheartedly and walk in faith, or will you draw back like the nameless nobles who missed their opportunity?
Let's be a people known for our resilience, consistency, and commitment to God's mission. Let's build together, support each other, and stay focused on the work God has called us to do. Amen.
### Key Takeaways
1. God Chooses You for a Purpose: Nehemiah's story begins with him serving as a cupbearer to King Artaxerxes. Despite his high position, his heart was deeply troubled by the news of Jerusalem's broken walls. This drove him to mourn, fast, and pray, eventually leading him to volunteer for the task of rebuilding. This teaches us that God often places us in strategic positions for His purposes, even if we don't realize it at first. Our actions must partner with our prayers to fulfill God's plans. [01:46]
2. The Power of Community and Collaboration: In Nehemiah chapter 3, various groups and families worked on different sections of the wall, each contributing their skills and labor. This "next to" principle emphasizes the importance of who we do life with. We need godly friends, mentors, and encouragers to build something of lasting value. It's not just about individual effort but collective action. This principle is crucial for building a strong, resilient community. [24:06]
3. Leadership Requires Prayer and Strategic Planning: Nehemiah's leadership was marked by prayer, strategic planning, and the ability to inspire others. He assessed the situation quietly, formulated a plan, and then rallied the people to work. His leadership ensured that everyone was in the right place, doing the right work, and supporting each other. This teaches us that effective leadership involves both spiritual and practical elements. [36:06]
4. Expect and Overcome Opposition: As Nehemiah began the work, he faced opposition from figures like Samballot and Tobiah, who mocked and tried to discourage him. However, Nehemiah's response was rooted in faith and resilience. He declared that the God of heaven would prosper their efforts and that the enemies had no part in their mission. This teaches us that opposition is to be expected, but it should not deter us from God's work. [15:20]
5. Resilience and Consistency are Key: In Nehemiah chapter 6, the enemy made a final attempt to distract Nehemiah, but he remained focused, saying, "I am doing a great work, so I cannot come down." This statement encapsulates the essence of resilience and consistency. Nehemiah's work was not just about rebuilding a wall; it was about restoring a community and fulfilling God's purpose. We must stay focused and committed to the work God has called us to do. [40:59]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:46] - God Chooses You
[03:17] - Introduction to Nehemiah
[04:48] - Nehemiah's Grief and Prayer
[06:14] - Shifting Perspective in Prayer
[09:13] - Nehemiah Before the King
[10:45] - Leadership and Character
[12:16] - Nehemiah's Plan and Action
[15:20] - Facing Opposition
[18:00] - Responding with Truth
[19:30] - God's Unchanging Purpose
[21:03] - Humor in Scripture
[22:33] - The "Next To" Principle
[24:06] - Building Together
[25:35] - The Nobles' Missed Opportunity
[27:05] - Engaging in Community
[28:34] - Diverse Builders
[29:58] - The Honor of Work
[31:34] - Expecting Opposition
[33:02] - Resilience and Consistency
[36:06] - Building and Battling
[37:39] - Honoring Leaders
[39:22] - Building a Godly Family
[40:59] - Staying Focused
[42:47] - God's Choice and Our Response
[44:32] - Invitation to Salvation
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide: "God Chooses You"
#### Bible Reading
1. Nehemiah 1:1-11
2. Nehemiah 2:1-8
3. Nehemiah 4:7-9
#### Observation Questions
1. What was Nehemiah's initial reaction upon hearing about the state of Jerusalem? How did he respond? ([04:48])
2. How did Nehemiah gain the favor of King Artaxerxes to support his mission? ([09:13])
3. What types of opposition did Nehemiah face as he began the work of rebuilding the wall? ([15:20])
4. Describe the "next to" principle mentioned in Nehemiah chapter 3. How did it contribute to the rebuilding effort? ([22:33])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does Nehemiah's shift in prayer from "God, send someone" to "God, send me" reflect a change in his understanding of God's calling? ([06:14])
2. In what ways did Nehemiah's leadership demonstrate both spiritual and practical elements? How did this balance contribute to the success of the mission? ([12:16])
3. How did Nehemiah and his people handle the opposition they faced? What can we learn from their response about dealing with challenges in our own lives? ([18:00])
4. The sermon emphasized the importance of community and collaboration. How does the "next to" principle apply to our modern-day church and personal lives? ([24:06])
#### Application Questions
1. Nehemiah's heart was deeply troubled by the brokenness he saw in Jerusalem. Is there a situation or issue in your life or community that deeply troubles you? How can you respond in prayer and action? ([04:48])
2. Nehemiah gained favor with the king through consistent and honorable service. Are there areas in your life where you need to demonstrate more consistency and integrity? How can you start this week? ([10:45])
3. Opposition is to be expected when doing God's work. Have you faced opposition in your efforts to serve God? How did you handle it, and what might you do differently in the future? ([15:20])
4. The "next to" principle emphasizes the importance of who we do life with. Who are the key people in your life that you are building with? Are there new relationships you need to cultivate to strengthen your community? ([24:06])
5. Nehemiah's resilience and consistency were key to overcoming challenges. Reflect on a time when you had to be resilient. What helped you stay focused, and how can you apply that to your current situation? ([33:02])
6. The sermon mentioned the importance of balancing building and battling in our spiritual lives. Are there areas where you need to be more vigilant in spiritual warfare while continuing to build? ([37:39])
7. Nehemiah's work was not just about rebuilding a wall but restoring a community. How can you contribute to restoring and strengthening your church or community? What specific steps can you take this week? ([40:59])
Devotional
### Day 1: God Places You Strategically
Description:
Nehemiah's story begins with him serving as a cupbearer to King Artaxerxes of Persia. Despite his high position, Nehemiah's heart was deeply troubled when he heard from his friend Hanani about the dire state of Jerusalem. The walls were broken, the gates burned, and the people were vulnerable. This news drove Nehemiah to mourn, fast, and pray for days, seeking God's intervention. His prayers evolved from asking God to send someone to fix the situation to volunteering himself for the task. This shift in perspective is crucial; spending time in God's presence can transform our prayers and align us with His will.
Nehemiah's story teaches us that God often places us in strategic positions, even if we don't realize it at first. Nehemiah's role as a cupbearer gave him access to the king, which he used to gain permission, protection, and resources to rebuild Jerusalem's walls. This shows that our actions must partner with our prayers. Nehemiah didn't just pray; he had a plan and was ready to act on it. [01:46]
Bible Passage:
"And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:14b, ESV)
Reflection:
Think about your current position in life. How might God be using your unique circumstances and relationships for His purposes? What steps can you take to align your actions with your prayers today?
### Day 2: The Power of Community and Collaboration
Description:
In Nehemiah chapter 3, various groups and families worked on different sections of the wall, each contributing their skills and labor. This "next to" principle emphasizes the importance of who we do life with. We need godly friends, mentors, and encouragers to build something of lasting value. It's not just about individual effort but collective action. This principle is crucial for building a strong, resilient community.
The story of Nehemiah shows that when people come together with a common purpose, they can achieve great things. The rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls was not just a physical task but a spiritual mission that required unity and collaboration. Each person’s contribution, no matter how small, was vital to the overall success. [24:06]
Bible Passage:
"Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!" (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, ESV)
Reflection:
Who are the people in your life that you can partner with to achieve God's purposes? How can you actively support and encourage them in their roles today?
### Day 3: Leadership Requires Prayer and Strategic Planning
Description:
Nehemiah's leadership was marked by prayer, strategic planning, and the ability to inspire others. He assessed the situation quietly, formulated a plan, and then rallied the people to work. His leadership ensured that everyone was in the right place, doing the right work, and supporting each other. This teaches us that effective leadership involves both spiritual and practical elements.
Nehemiah knew that building the wall was not just a physical task but a spiritual mission that required both construction and defense. The workers had tools in one hand and weapons in the other, symbolizing the dual nature of building and battling in our spiritual lives. His leadership was a blend of prayerful dependence on God and practical, strategic action. [36:06]
Bible Passage:
"Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established." (Proverbs 16:3, ESV)
Reflection:
In what areas of your life do you need to combine prayer with strategic planning? How can you take a step today to both seek God's guidance and make a practical plan for action?
### Day 4: Expect and Overcome Opposition
Description:
As Nehemiah began the work, he faced opposition from figures like Samballot and Tobiah, who mocked and tried to discourage him. However, Nehemiah's response was rooted in faith and resilience. He declared that the God of heaven would prosper their efforts and that the enemies had no part in their mission. This teaches us that opposition is to be expected, but it should not deter us from God's work.
Nehemiah's story reminds us that when we are engaged in God's work, we will face challenges and opposition. The key is to remain steadfast and focused, trusting that God will see us through. Nehemiah's faith and resilience in the face of adversity serve as an example for us to follow. [15:20]
Bible Passage:
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9, ESV)
Reflection:
What opposition or challenges are you currently facing in your life? How can you respond with faith and resilience, trusting that God is with you?
### Day 5: Resilience and Consistency are Key
Description:
In Nehemiah chapter 6, the enemy made a final attempt to distract Nehemiah, but he remained focused, saying, "I am doing a great work, so I cannot come down." This statement encapsulates the essence of resilience and consistency. Nehemiah's work was not just about rebuilding a wall; it was about restoring a community and fulfilling God's purpose. We must stay focused and committed to the work God has called us to do.
Nehemiah's unwavering focus and determination in the face of distractions and opposition are a powerful example for us. His commitment to God's mission was evident in his refusal to be sidetracked. This teaches us the importance of resilience and consistency in our own spiritual journeys. [40:59]
Bible Passage:
"Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain." (1 Corinthians 15:58, ESV)
Reflection:
What distractions are currently pulling you away from the work God has called you to do? How can you refocus and recommit to your mission with resilience and consistency today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Parents, you're raising a godly family, with one hand, you are building. You're investing. You're coaching. You're teaching. You're praying. You're sharing the word of God. And you better believe, with the other hand, you're battling. You're fighting lies. You're fighting agendas. Anything that's trying to rob your kids of their God-given identity, you are battling. And parents, I want to encourage you today to continue to speak truth to your kids. Get that in your head. Get that in your heart. Get the word of God in their heart. Get them to church. It's important. Let them know it's important who you do life next to. Get them to church. Let them experience the real life Jesus for themselves." [39:22]
2. "God chooses you. I want you to know that you are God's answer with a full grown Jesus inside of you. You are his answer to the brokenness you see around you. You are God's answer. Amen." [01:46]
3. "God will not allow what is broken and in shambles to stay in that state. If you're looking at something that is broken and in shambles, and your heart aches because of that, God is putting something on you for that broken thing. God does not allow for people to remain in shackles. He came so that we could be free. He came so that we could be free." [07:44]
4. "God has every resource you need. And many of these resources will be found in who you build next to. It takes you stepping out. It takes you being willing to learn new things, to be stretched in greater ways, to flex your faith. Everything is figureoutable. And God is faithful to guide and provide." [31:34]
5. "You want to keep it simple? Love God, love others, serve God, serve others. What if every time the enemy came against you with a worrisome or fearful thought or a circumstance or something that just riled you up inside, instead of trying to come up with your snazzy remark or your persuasion or whatnot, what you presented was truth, like Nehemiah? What if what rose up from the belly of your being was, the God of heaven will prosper me? The God of heaven will prosper me. It's on him. And I will rise and build." [18:00]
### Quotes for Members
1. "Leadership is necessary. It's necessary to assess. It's necessary to get godly principles and strategy. It's necessary to delegate, to prioritize, to strategize, to project. The vision and keep the focus on the mission. This is one of the many reasons why we need to honor and pray for our leaders. Amen. Amen. We need to honor and pray for our leaders. We need our leaders. We need to be the kind of leaders that have godly principle, and we also need to be a blessing to lead. Amen." [36:06]
2. "We need godly friends. We need encouragers. We need mentors. We need prayers. And we need to be those people for others. We aren't just called to be a sponge. We're also called to pour out and give out. And that's why God prioritizes church family. It's not a social club where you dip in and dip out. It's a family where we come together. We sharpen one another. We grow one another. We battle for one another. Amen? And we do life together. God has a good plan. It's this church. It's the church family. But you need to put yourself in the mix. That means that you show up. You engage. You serve. You reach out. You minister. You make new friends. Not just my four and no more. Let's welcome other people in. Make new friends. And recognize that we are on mission building next to." [24:06]
3. "Nehemiah quietly got up, assessed the situation. He wasn't oblivious to what he was facing. He acknowledged the status. It's bad. This looks bad, but he had a vision for a greater future, and he started taking action to lead the people. He was not oblivious to what that course and to organize that vision. Nehemiah, in chapter 2, verses 18 through 19, it says, I told them, the Jews, of the hand of my God, which had been good upon me, and also of the king's words, that he had spoken to me. And they said, let us rise up and build. Then they set their hands to this good work." [16:41]
4. "Nehemiah's honor and service to the king caused the king to take notice when he was off, when there was something wrong. It saved his life. It's worth noting the great leadership attribute of the king. The fact that he cared about those that were subject to him. We need to honor one another, regardless of what our status is. Amen? We need to care. And Nehemiah gained the king's favor. Nehemiah didn't just pray. He didn't just ask the king and hope that the resources would be distributed and it would be taken care of. He had a plan. Nehemiah, as a leader, had a plan. He had skin in the game. You and I, we need to have skin in the game. Amen? Our actions must partner with our prayers." [12:16]
5. "Nehemiah proceeded with the plan, a cupbearer. A cupbearer now on mission to lead and to build, equipped with the favor of God and man. But guess what? It's not too long and he encounters opposition. Nehemiah chapter 2, verse 10 says, When Samballot the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite official heard of it, what Nehemiah was doing, they were deeply disturbed that a man had come to seek the well-being of the children of Israel. Let it be known, there is an enemy that is deeply disturbed when the children of God take up their position, advance, and they're doing well. There's an enemy that feels threatened when you take up your position and what God has for you. Let it be known, God's favor on your life will ruffle feathers. It will ruffle feathers. Opposition is to be expected." [15:20]
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