In Touch - Dec. 9, 2008
- Sign Up for Email?
- 2008 Dec 09
December 9, 2008
Nation Builders
Nehemiah 1
In Touch magazine makes its way into many countries. So I am thinking globally when I write this: Your nation needs your prayers.
Before a single stone was laid to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls, Nehemiah began the work on his knees before God. He fasted and mourned over his motherland’s vulnerability. The soon-to-be construction foreman then offered up a three-part prayer. First, he confessed Israel’s sin; next, he reminded the Lord of His promises to the faithful; and finally, he requested success for his plans.
Like Nehemiah, all of us are to be nation builders. His response to Israel’s situation should be our template for fighting threats of evil to our homelands. Perhaps you’ve never thought to fast over a national crisis. Or you may not know that you can intercede about your countrymen’s disobedience to God. But taking action to protect and serve others is a believer’s responsibility (Matt. 25:35-40).
Some people argue that one individual’s prayers or activities cannot make a dent in a country’s problems. Nehemiah proved otherwise. God used him to gather supplies and organize the Jewish people to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls in just 52 days (Neh. 6:15).
The effect of your intercession will likely be subtler than Nehemiah’s. In fact, until you reach heaven, you may not even know the impact. Countries are always in flux, but steps of change are often so small as to be imperceptible day to day. If we are to build nations where the innocent are protected and justice prevails, then we must begin as Nehemiah did—on our knees.
FEATURED RESOURCE
This Bible combines the wisdom of Scripture with the principles that guide Dr. Charles Stanley's life and empower his ministry. Order your copy.
To see more resources from In Touch Ministries, please visit us at www.intouch.org or go directly to our bookstore at
Used with permission from In Touch Ministries, Inc. © 2008 All Rights Reserved.
