October 10, 2021: SOAP #4329:  Nehemiah 3-4; Luke 23

SCRIPTURE:  Nehemiah (NIV) 4:6 So we rebuilt the wall till all of it reached half its height, for the people worked with all their heart.

OBSERVATION: Israel had been taken into captivity because of their sins.  Nehemiah had risen to a place of service to the King.  Nehemiah heard a report of his home city that caused his heart to grieve.  The king noted Nehemiah’s sad disposition and agreed to send Nehemiah back to Jerusalem with a group of volunteers; their assignment: to rebuild the city of Jerusalem.  Back at Jerusalem, they faced challenges and opposition…but “the people worked with all their heart.”

God had plans for Jerusalem.  The Messiah would walk the streets of that city.  Outside Jerusalem, the Messiah would sacrifice His life to pay for the sins of the world!  God would not allow this city to remain in ruins!

APPLICATION:  They succeeded because: 
1.  They were working in accordance with God’s plan. 
2.  They had godly leadership who had a passion from God. 
3.  They worked together, each building the part of the wall assigned to them.  4. They “worked with all their heart.” 
5.  They did not allow the opposition to change their vision. 

PRAYER: Holy Spirit, rekindle the fire of passion in my/our hearts.  Keep me/us on track when opposition or challenges arise. I make your assignment to me the most important thing I do.  Amen.

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!