Take A Chance (Part 2)
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Take A Chance 2
Take A Chance 2
Nehemiah 2:5–8 (ESV)
5 And I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, and if your servant has found favor in your sight, that you send me to Judah, to the city of my fathers’ graves, that I may rebuild it.” 6 And the king said to me (the queen sitting beside him), “How long will you be gone, and when will you return?” So it pleased the king to send me when I had given him a time. 7 And I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, let letters be given me to the governors of the province Beyond the River, that they may let me pass through until I come to Judah, 8 and a letter to Asaph, the keeper of the king’s forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the fortress of the temple, and for the wall of the city, and for the house that I shall occupy.” And the king granted me what I asked, for the good hand of my God was upon me.
DT: When we accept the call of God and step out on faith God will equip us for the task.
Introduction:
At our last meeting, we discussed two of the three ways Nehemiah demonstrated taking a chance in the face of difficulties. The first of which is to Speak Up . . .
Speak Up:
Nehemiah carries a burden in his heart to fulfill God's calling by rebuilding and repairing the walls of Jerusalem. Despite the obstacle posed by his position in the king's court, Nehemiah remains undeterred. When presented with the opportunity to address the matter, he speaks up courageously.
Note: Nehemiah maintains a respectful attitude toward his superior.
Nehemiah demonstrates humility; he is not arrogant.
Approaching King Artaxerxes with reverence and prayer, Nehemiah exemplifies a posture of reliance on God's guidance.
Through Nehemiah's example, we learn that God empowers us when we align our words and actions with His Will.
Pray Up:
The Scripture emphasizes that before Nehemiah proceeded with his requests to the king, he turned to prayer.
Nehemiah's example teaches us the importance of seeking God's guidance through prayer in all our endeavors.
Prayer serves to align our hearts and actions with the will of God.
Prayer grants us divine strength, empowering us to face challenges and obstacles.
Ultimately, prayer deepens our intimacy with God, strengthening our relationship with Him.
Today, we examine Nehemiah’s final example that teaches us to Step Up. . .
Step Up (Nehemiah 2:5-8)
Nehemiah 2:5–8 (ESV)
5 And I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, and if your servant has found favor in your sight, that you send me to Judah, to the city of my fathers’ graves, that I may rebuild it.” 6 And the king said to me (the queen sitting beside him), “How long will you be gone, and when will you return?” So it pleased the king to send me when I had given him a time. 7 And I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, let letters be given me to the governors of the province Beyond the River, that they may let me pass through until I come to Judah, 8 and a letter to Asaph, the keeper of the king’s forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the fortress of the temple, and for the wall of the city, and for the house that I shall occupy.” And the king granted me what I asked, for the good hand of my God was upon me.
Nehemiah didn't stop at mere words and prayers; he took action. He made three specific requests:
1. Nehemiah requested time away.
- He didn't delegate the task to someone else but took personal responsibility to fulfill God's calling.
2. Nehemiah requested protection.
- Boldly, he asked the king for letters ensuring his safety during the journey to Jerusalem, recognizing the potential dangers.
3. Nehemiah requested resources.
- Fearlessly, he asked the king for timber to complete the gates.
Verse 8 highlights, "And the king granted me what I asked for, for the good hand of my God was upon me"
Let's not miss this crucial point: When we step up in God's will, He provides and equips us for the task.
Take a chance and trust God!
Take a chance and step up to the challenge!
God equips those He calls. Consider the possibilities when we trust God and His divine Will!
What is God calling you to do? Where is God calling you to serve Him? Are you willing to take a chance? Are you willing to step out on faith and trust God?
If you find yourself hesitating, uncertain if you're ready to take that leap of faith, remember:
God doesn't call the equipped; He equips the called. Just like Nehemiah, who wasn't a skilled builder or a seasoned diplomat, God used him to accomplish extraordinary things. So, if you're waiting for the perfect moment or until you feel completely ready, you might be waiting forever.
Remember, stepping out in faith doesn't guarantee smooth sailing. There will be challenges, obstacles, and moments of doubt. But when you trust in God's promises and rely on His strength, He will guide you through every storm.
So, if you're still struggling to step up, know that you're not alone. God is with you every step of the way, empowering you to fulfill His purpose for your life. Take a chance today. Step out in faith, and watch as God works miracles in and through you.