July 6

Nehemiah 1

Nehemiah weeps as he learns of Jerusalem’s deterioration.

INSIGHT

One of the essential characteristics of leadership is that the leader feels the full weight of the plight of certain people and assumes responsibility for their condition. Many people knew of Jerusalem’s condition, but few felt the impact and had the vision for response. Nehemiah did and God used him in a mighty way. What in life “hits” you? What situations cause you to feel the impact of the plight of others, and for what situations do you have a vision for response? It might be as large as a nation or as small as a church nursery. But if you feel it and have a vision for it, chances are God would like to use you there.

PRAYER

Being used by the Lord is a joyful experience. Praise Him as you consider how He might use you:
Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations.
Before the mountains were brought forth,
Or ever You had formed the earth and the world,
Even from everlasting to everlasting,
You are God. . . .
Oh, satisfy us early with Your mercy,
That we may rejoice and be glad all our days!

(Psalm 90:1-2, 14).

As you seek to keep your life free from sin, pray this confession to the Lord:
“Come now, and let us reason together,”
Says the Lord,
“Though your sins are like scarlet,
They shall be as white as snow;
Though they are red like crimson,
They shall be as wool” (Isaiah 1:18).

Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind. Now pray this affirmation to the Lord:
If you cry out for discernment,
And lift up your voice for understanding,
If you seek her as silver,
And search for her as for hidden treasures;
Then you will understand the fear of the Lord,
And find the knowledge of God
(Proverbs 2:3-5).

As you make your requests known to the Lord, include:
-- Greater sensitivity to sin,
-- The ministry of your local church,
-- Your activities for the day.

Offer this closing prayer to the Lord:
Be of good courage,
And He shall strengthen your heart,
All you who hope in the Lord (Psalm 31:24). 

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