Dark Horses: Overlooked Heroes - Day 07
Day 07 - Tuesday, July 02
Read Nehemiah 2 & 3
Highlight
Nehemiah approaches the king with a request to go to Jerusalem to rebuild its walls. Approaching the king was risky, he could have faced severe consequences if the king had not been favorable, even death for his audacity. Nehemiah admits his fear, but his compassion for his people compels him to step out in faith. Surprisingly, the king not only grants his request, but even provides him with letters for safe passage and resources. God’s favor is clearly with Nehemiah.
When he arrives in Jerusalem, it begins to set in what a significant task lies in front of Nehemiah. He enters the city by night knowing that he does not have any authority with which to begin this mission and anticipating opposition. In addition, we have no reason to believe that Nehemiah had any formal training in construction or leadership. We see God’s hand at work in Nehemiah’s apparent deficit. Nehemiah leads a diverse group of workers and successfully organizes and motivates them towards their common goal, despite mocking and even threats.
Nehemiah's leadership was crucial not only in the physical, but the spiritual rebuilding of Jerusalem. His ability to inspire and organize the people was instrumental in overcoming the challenges they faced.
Reflection & Prayer
For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method. It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading. It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal. But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.
S.O.A.P. Method
Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal. Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.” What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?
Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage. What is this passage or verse saying about God? About people? How is Jesus revealed in these verses?
Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life. Is there truth about God that you are to believe? Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth? Who could you share this story with and how God is speaking to you about it this week?
Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture. Be honest and express your heart to Him. God always listens and He delights in your prayers (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8).
Read Nehemiah 2 & 3
Highlight
Nehemiah approaches the king with a request to go to Jerusalem to rebuild its walls. Approaching the king was risky, he could have faced severe consequences if the king had not been favorable, even death for his audacity. Nehemiah admits his fear, but his compassion for his people compels him to step out in faith. Surprisingly, the king not only grants his request, but even provides him with letters for safe passage and resources. God’s favor is clearly with Nehemiah.
When he arrives in Jerusalem, it begins to set in what a significant task lies in front of Nehemiah. He enters the city by night knowing that he does not have any authority with which to begin this mission and anticipating opposition. In addition, we have no reason to believe that Nehemiah had any formal training in construction or leadership. We see God’s hand at work in Nehemiah’s apparent deficit. Nehemiah leads a diverse group of workers and successfully organizes and motivates them towards their common goal, despite mocking and even threats.
Nehemiah's leadership was crucial not only in the physical, but the spiritual rebuilding of Jerusalem. His ability to inspire and organize the people was instrumental in overcoming the challenges they faced.
Reflection & Prayer
For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method. It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading. It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal. But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.
S.O.A.P. Method
Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal. Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.” What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?
Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage. What is this passage or verse saying about God? About people? How is Jesus revealed in these verses?
Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life. Is there truth about God that you are to believe? Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth? Who could you share this story with and how God is speaking to you about it this week?
Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture. Be honest and express your heart to Him. God always listens and He delights in your prayers (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8).
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