Two weeks ago, we began a new sermon series titled “For The City: A Study in Nehemiah,” and while we have just started, God has revealed not just His call upon the church but the needs of our community and city. The account of God’s work in the life of Nehemiah is an encouraging testimony. Nehemiah was a man who was faithful to where God had placed him and upon hearing the devastating news of the city of Jerusalem, he breaks down and appeals to God and is later sent to rebuild the city.

Nehemiah’s experience is extremely relevant to where we find ourselves today. Many often ask God about the purpose for their life, and the book of Nehemiah encourages us to serve faithfully without complaint right where God has us. God is at work in our lives right now, and His will for your life and mine is for us to be sanctified and drawn closer to the person and work of Jesus.

One of the biggest themes throughout Nehemiah is prayer. We continuously see Nehemiah appealing to God. Likewise, in times of great need, we are called to pursue humility through prayer. Humility reveals our relationship and dependence on God.

Here are a few thoughts I would encourage you to meditate on as we walk through our study of Nehemiah:

1. Serve faithfully: Jesus tells his disciples to be faithful with the little so that they can be faithful with much. Where you’re at right now is where you’re meant to be, so serve faithfully. Whether it’s in the local church and in a specific ministry or by washing the dishes at home, be faithful with what’s in front of you.

2. Prayer: when Nehemiah prays to God, he appeals to the faithfulness of God — not his own. Do your prayers reflect the same? As a testimony to the faithfulness of God, do you think back to what He’s done in your life? Nehemiah does. And when he shines the light on himself, it’s about the confession of his sin. When we pray in humility, we reveal our relationship with God and our need for God.

3. Stand: during a time of national disunity, the church has been called to model unity, care, and compassion. While many are scared and confused, the church has been called to be strong and courageous. The devastating news Nehemiah receives is brought first to prayer — not a plan of action. Planning is a big part of Nehemiah’s testimony, but only because it is a result of his relationship with God and the confession of his sin.

We will be in the book of Nehemiah throughout the fall. My hope and prayer is that as we see God at work in the life of Nehemiah, we would be encouraged and reminded that He is at also work in our own lives. Additionally, as God calls Nehemiah to step out in faith for the rebuilding of his city, we, by His grace, would be empowered to step out in faith to love and serve our city.