The Prayer of Nehemiah, Part 1

Nehemiah 1:2 NIV Hanani, one of my brothers, came from Judah with some other men, and I questioned them about the Jewish remnant that had survived the exile and also about Jerusalem.

During the meeting with his brother, Nehemiah asked his brother about the well-being of Jerusalem. Among the various topics they could have discussed, the focus was on Jerusalem and its impact on the people.

Lesson

When God blesses you, prioritize His Kingdom and the welfare of His people by showing concern for His work.

Nehemiah 1:3-4 NIV They said to me, "Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire." When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days, I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven.

After receiving the distressing report, he was overcome with sorrow and grief. He felt a deep sense of responsibility towards his people and their welfare and turned to his faith for solace and guidance. He abstained from food and supplicated to God, earnestly beseeching God for the well-being of Jerusalem and the prosperity and safety of his people.

Lesson

It is crucial to prioritize loving God and His people and advancing His Kingdom over prioritizing yourself. Make God's problem your problem, and focus on loving His people and desiring the advancement of His Kingdom. Avoid making everything about yourself, what you need, want, or feel entitled to receive. Instead, make everything about God and His Kingdom.