Brick by Brick

The Babylonian exiles were returned to their home land after the prophesied time had passed. They returned in three groups. The first group was led by Zerubbabel, the second by Ezra and Nehemiah brought the final group back home. When Nehemiah returned he found his city defenseless; no walls to protect it from their enemies.

Nehemiah 1:5-6 (MSG)
 I said, "GOD, God-of-Heaven, the great and awesome God, loyal to his covenant and faithful to those who love him and obey his commands: Look at me, listen to me. Pay attention to this prayer of your servant that I'm praying day and night in intercession for your servants, the People of Israel, confessing the sins of the People of Israel. And I'm including myself, I and my ancestors, among those who have sinned against you. 

Nehemiah is a model of committed, God-honoring leadership. The Book of Nehemiah contains many useful lessons for today's leaders to learn. He saw the condition of the city and decided to do something about it. He was determined to help rebuild the city's fallen walls. To do this, he needed the blessing of the King. So, first he prayed.

Next he approached King Artaxerxes and asked for permission to go to Jerusalem and the king approved. Nehemiah organized this massive construction project, delegated various duties and assigned specific sections of the wall to his crews.

This story is one of challenge.  It is one of prayerful, faith driven passion. Nehemiah miraculously completed this project in 52 days. His enemies became even more fearful of him because they knew God was on their side for them to have accomplished this feat in such a short time.

Is there a 'project' God has placed on your heart?  Are you wrestling with a burden to right a wrong?  Follow Nehemiah's lead and pray first; seeking God's direction and His peace. Pour your heart out to God and ask specifically for your request to be answered. Then stand back and give God room to work. It will be amazing.

Nehemiah 1:1-11