Highlight Despite his good intentions, Nehemiah faced significant external opposition from surrounding enemies who sought to intimidate and stop the work of rebuilding the walls. Even still, he remained steadfast and encouraged the people to trust in God. In addition to the outside pressure and ridicule, Nehemiah has internal issues as well, addressing injustices within the community and ensuring that the poor were not exploited  Read More

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.  Read More

Highlight Nehemiah's story is part of a larger narrative of the return of the Israelites from exile and the rebuilding of Jerusalem. The book of Nehemiah, along with Ezra, chronicles the efforts to restore the community and the city, emphasizing themes of renewal, repentance, and God's faithfulness  Read More

Welcome to Week Two of the Dark Horses: Overlooked Heroes Reading Plan! This reading plan is designed to partner with Compassion Christian Church’s sermon series of the same name  Read More

Highlight We end our story of Esther with perhaps more questions than answers and we’re left to wrestle with the moral ambiguity of Esther and Mordecai’s actions in response to their new found power. The very violence that they feared they exact on their own enemies. And of course throughout the story we see both Mordecai and Esther engage in morally questionable behavior.  Read More

Highlight The faith of Mordecai and Esther has changed the fate of an entire nation in captivity. The Jews are given the freedom to be autonomous, not just protected by the King and his empire, but free to defend themselves against evil. Their dignity is restored. Their identity is so changed that where there was grief and mourning there is now rejoicing and victory. Sound familiar?  Read More