Nehemiah sees the condition of his people, the Israelites, and is grieved. He uses his position to begin to pursue the solution. Like Nehemiah, our hearts should break over the spiritual condition of those who are far from Jesus. As we become aware of the need around us, we are faced with the decision to choose action over inactivity.
RESOURCES:
See the Need First 15 Guide
Good News web page
With the rebuilding of the wall surrounding Jerusalem complete, Nehemiah turned his attention to making sure his work would endure. Likewise, we are are challenged to take steps to make sure the work of the church keeps going.
RESOURCE:
Keeping it Going First 15 Guide
The wall was completed and in Nehemiah Chapter 8 the people gather together for the first time in years and Ezra reads to them from Moses's law. This story helps us understand how we as a community of faith can provide a safe environment for people to know God.
RESOURCE:
Encountering God First 15 Guide
Nehemiah and the Israelites faced opposition from those around them that didn't want the wall built. They held a weapon in one hand while the other repaired the wall with a trowel. How Nehemiah dealt with opposition gives us an example on how we can overcome our own obstacles to evangelism in our own lives.
RESOURCES:
Overcoming Opposition First 15 Guide
Sharing Faith Q&A Event at BridgePointe
Nehemiah is a man of constant prayer. The project begins with prayer and prayer overflows from his heart throughout the entire book. When we commit to the mission of Jesus, the practice of continual prayer gives us access to the insight and wisdom of the Almighty God.
RESOURCES:
Prayer on Purpose First 15 Guide
A list of the prayers in the book of Nehemiah
Rebuilding the wall took the help of all sorts of people, right where they were. Jewelers, politicians, families, and clergy worked side by side on their parts of the wall. Likewise, when we each impact the people around us, the hope of Jesus will circulate throughout our entire community and many people will be changed by Jesus.
RESOURCES:
Building Together First 15 Guide
My Circles explanation and pdf