Nehemiah Chapter 1
I Want A Heart Like God’s.
Nehemiah was a Jew and was a cup bearer for King Artaxerxes. When he had heard the news of Jerusalem being taken captive and that the wall of Jerusalem and the Lord’s Temple were destroyed, he broke down and wept for days. He prayed and fasted for God’s people to return to him in obedience to God’s commands because Nehemiah knew that God promised that if his people returned to him, he would re-establish them into their homes and restore their lives.
How do you respond to bad news when people are hurting? Now I realize it’s hard to respond the same to every broken situation. I’ll hurt more if something bad happens to my wife and daughters as compared to something that happens to someone in a foreign land that I don’t know. I might feel bad for the Foreigner but not as bad as with a family member.
What about lost souls, those without Jesus? Does that bother us? I’ve prayed on numerous occasions that God would give me his heart. I want to be broken for the lost and hurting so that I am motivated to do something about it. It’s too easy to get caught up in my own life. I have become more intentional in praying for those who are hurting and have expressed needs. I have a prayer journal for writing down prayer request so I don’t forget to pray for people in need. Then I try to do a follow-up with these individuals. I don’t want life to be all about me. I want to invest more into the lives of others.
CHALLENGE:
If you hear a need of someone today or in the days ahead, pray for them and tell them you’ll be continually praying for them. Then in a week, follow up and ask how they’re doing. They’ll appreciate it and God will appreciate your loving heart for them. Have a good day!
