What Will You Risk?
What Will You Risk?
I was overwhelmed with fear and replied to the king, “May the king live forever! Why should I not be sad when the city where my ancestors are buried lies in ruins and its gates have been destroyed by fire?” (Neh. 2:2–3)
Nehemiah’s Risk
Nehemiah felt the burden of his people. He sought the Lord’s face continually. But then he took a decisive step. What was Nehemiah willing to risk to ensure that God’s work would be done among God’s people?
First, he gave up a secure and lucrative position in the king’s palace. Second, he risked his carefully cultivated respect in the kingdom by casting his lot with a ragtag refugee group in Israel. Third, he risked the ire of the competing interests in and around Jerusalem who would fight to keep the walls from being rebuilt. Fourth, he gave up the comfort of his home and familiar surroundings.
It’s Going to Cost You Something
While many see the problems of a world in need, and some even pray for God to bring about a solution, few are willing to consider making sacrifices themselves. Surely God will send others to the mission field, others into the homes of disadvantaged kids, others to volunteer for the homeless. That’s how we think.
But what if God is asking you to do something? Are you willing to give up the comfortable? Are you willing to risk life and reputation? Are you willing to throw yourself on the mercy of the Almighty? God is calling people in our day just as He called Nehemiah in his day. Will you answer that call? Will you willingly sacrifice yourself for others?
Bottom Line
What are you willing to risk to answer the call of God?