Introduction

Welcome, everyone! Today, we continue our journey through the book of Nehemiah as part 2 of our "Build Your Faith 40-Day Challenge." If you haven't joined the challenge yet, we encourage you to text "challenge" to our texting service (833-232-6680) to receive daily readings and reflection questions. This series aims to help us rebuild our faith and revitalize our church community. Today, we focus on the importance of making a plan, as illustrated in Nehemiah 2:1-10.

The Importance of Planning

Why Do We Need a Plan?

In both life and faith, planning is crucial. The saying "failing to plan is planning to fail" holds true. However, it's essential to remember that our plans are just that—plans. Psalms 127:1 reminds us, "Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain." Nehemiah's story teaches us that while human plans are necessary, they must align with God's will.

Nehemiah's Burden and Prayer

Nehemiah first heard about the destruction of Jerusalem's walls in the month of Kislev (late fall). He was deeply burdened and spent days praying, fasting, and seeking God's guidance. His prayer in Nehemiah 1:11 shows his dependence on God: "O Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of your servant... give success to your servant today."

Nehemiah's Opportunity

Waiting for the Right Moment

Nehemiah had to wait several months before he could present his request to King Artaxerxes. This period of waiting was not wasted; it was a time of preparation and continued faithfulness in his duties as the king's cupbearer.

The King's Question

When the king finally noticed Nehemiah's sadness, he asked, "Why is your face sad, seeing you are not sick? This is nothing but sadness of the heart." Nehemiah was afraid but prepared. He had thought about his request for months and was ready to present his plan.

The Plan Unfolds

Nehemiah's Request

Nehemiah's request was clear and well-thought-out. He asked the king to send him to Judah to rebuild the city. He also requested letters for safe passage and timber for construction. Nehemiah's preparation paid off, and the king granted all his requests.

God's Hand in the Plan

Nehemiah acknowledged that the success of his plan was due to God's favor: "And the king granted me what I asked, for the good hand of my God was upon me" (Nehemiah 2:8).

Lessons from Nehemiah

Don't Let It Go

Nehemiah didn't ignore the bad news. He took it to heart and sought God's guidance. Similarly, we should not ignore the spiritual damage in our lives but seek God's help in addressing it.

Think It Through

Nehemiah thought through his plan meticulously. He considered what he would need and how to present his request. We should also think through our plans and seek God's wisdom in our decision-making.

Be Faithful While You Wait

Nehemiah remained faithful in his duties while waiting for the right moment. We should continue to serve and be faithful in our responsibilities as we wait for God's timing.

Have a Clear Plan

Nehemiah had a clear plan and knew what he needed to succeed. We should also have a clear vision and plan for our spiritual growth and the revitalization of our church.

Life Application

Applying Nehemiah's Lessons

Nehemiah's story teaches us the importance of planning, patience, and faithfulness. As we seek to rebuild our faith and our church, we must:

1. **Assess the Damage**: Identify the areas in our lives and church that need rebuilding.

2. **Make a Plan**: Develop a clear plan for addressing these areas, seeking God's guidance.

3. **Be Faithful**: Continue to serve and be faithful in our current responsibilities while waiting for God's timing.

4. **Seek Accountability**: Find someone who can hold you accountable and support you in your journey.

Questions to Reflect On

1. Have you identified the areas in your life that need spiritual rebuilding?

2. Do you have a clear plan for addressing these areas?

3. Are you remaining faithful in your current responsibilities while waiting for God's timing?

4. Do you have someone who can hold you accountable and support you in your journey?

Challenge for the Week

This week, take time to assess the spiritual condition of your heart and life. Identify one area that needs rebuilding and develop a clear plan for addressing it. Share this plan with someone who can hold you accountable and support you in your journey. Remember, any plan must align with God's will and timing.

Conclusion

Nehemiah's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of planning, patience, and faithfulness. As we seek to rebuild our faith and our church, let us follow Nehemiah's example and trust in God's providence. May we be diligent in our duties, thoughtful in our plans, and faithful in our service, knowing that God's hand is upon us.