Insight from the Prayer of Nehemiah

God called Nehemiah to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem to protect the place of worship from the corroding cultural influence of the day.

In the 21st century the walls of truth are in ruin in many communities. The church is called to rebuild the walls of strength and truth in the church.

It begins with prayer.

Principles of rebuilding from Nehemiah 1:5-11:

1. Revelation of who God is and of His purpose

"O LORD, God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and obey his commands, "

2. Reach out to the God who hears

" let your ear be attentive and your eyes open to hear the prayer your servant is praying before you day and night for your servants, the people of Israel."

3. Radical responsibility for personal and corporate failure

"I confess the sins we Israelites, including myself and my father's house, have committed against you. 7 We have acted very wickedly toward you. We have not obeyed the commands, decrees and laws you gave your servant Moses."

4. Rely on the word of God

"Remember the instruction you gave your servant Moses, saying, 'If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the nations, 9 but if you return to me and obey my commands, then even if your exiled people are at the farthest horizon, I will gather them from there and bring them to the place I have chosen as a dwelling for my Name.'"

5. Restore the truth about God's people

"They are your servants and your people, whom you redeemed by your great strength and your mighty hand. "

6. Rejoice in God and walk in His destiny for you

"O Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man."

7, Realize that you are called to rebuild the wall of truth where you are today.

"I was cupbearer to the king.... and because the gracious hand of my God was on me."