In Nehemiah Ch. 2, the King noticed Nehemiah’s

 deep sadness and asked what was wrong, since

sadness was so out of character for Nehemiah. 

Although very much afraid, Nehemiah explained to

 the King that he couldn’t help being saddened

when Jerusalem and its gates had been broken

and burned down.

When faced with Nehemiah’s sadness and honesty,

the King asked what he could do to help.  As he

always did when faced with a tough or important

situation, Nehemiah prayed a quick, spontaneous

prayer seeking God’s help and wisdom. 

Nehemiah then explained his desire and calling to

rebuild the gates of Jerusalem and sought the Kings

 support and protection. The King granted Nehemiah

 his full request, and Nehemiah headed for Jerusalem

 to begin the work God had entrusted him to complete. 

When arriving in Jerusalem, he told no one what God

 had placed on his heart to do.  Instead he waited 3

days for God’s leading and then did a careful and

cautious survey of the damage, needs and cost.

Instead of judging, or criticizing the people for

their problems, circumstances and sorrows,

he took  the time to look at things from their

 perspective and feelings. 

When he explained the plans God had given him to

rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, he let them know

how vital their help and commitment was to the

project.  In doing so, he not only had their support,

he had their enthusiasm. This was very important

when the religious people of the community began

 using mockery, ridicule, lies, threats, etc., to

discourage them from completing their God-given

calling.  

In asking God to give us success there are several

 keys we must remember. In all matters related to

 His Kingdom, success always begins and ends with

God.  When we know a plan, or calling is God’s will

and we follow His guidance, we can expect God’s

 blessing, provision, and protection.

Chapters 4-6 give us several more keys to success: 

1. We must put our whole heart into our calling. 

Chapter 4:6

2. We must stay prayerful, and watchful as we work Chapter. 4:9

3. We must demonstrate courage, determination and

faith when confronting opposition from the enemy.

Chapter 4:14

4. We must persevere, and refuse to lose sight

of Gods vision until the work is finished, so that

when it is complete even non-believers can’t

 help but acknowledge God’s glory in it.

5. Most importantly we must never fail to Praise God.  

Love in Christ,

Evangelist Ken Godfrey Jr. 

Your Cross Outreach Ministry

www.yourcross.org