Beyond Ourselves!

Some view religion as a crutch. However, the acceptance of true religion is not a sign of weakness, but of wisdom. There is a sense in which it takes strength to be willing to admit the need for help beyond ourselves. Someone has stated, “The best way to stand up before the world is to kneel down before God.” [source: “1600 Squibs And Quips”, compiled by E. C. McKenzie]

There are a number of individuals in the pages of Scripture who may come to mind when we think of those who frequently turned to God in PRAYER. Perhaps Daniel comes to mind. Even our Lord spent much time in PRAYER. Who else comes to mind?

Nehemiah was a strong leader. He could not be easily discouraged, but was instead a great encourager of others in the face of the monumental work of rebuilding the walls around Jerusalem and seeking to get God’s people back on track spiritually. As I look at Nehemiah’s life it is quite evident the role PRAYER played. He knew it was with God’s help that such a work could be completed successfully regardless of the opposition faced.

In the very first chapter of the book of Nehemiah, as this man of God (presently serving in Persia as cupbearer to King Artaxerxes) heard of the condition of things in Jerusalem we read…

“As soon as I heard these words I sat down and wept and mourned for days, and I CONTINUED fasting and PRAYING BEFORE THE GOD OF HEAVEN.” ( Nehemiah 1:4 ESV)

As Nehemiah PRAYED he acknowledged his sin and the sin of the people and humbly called upon God. He acknowledged God’s promises and noted God’s great power and strong hand. He then ended this prayer with…

“‘Oh Lord, let your ear be attentive to the PRAYER OF YOUR SERVANT, and to the PRAYER OF YOUR SERVANTS WHO DELIGHT TO FEAR YOUR NAME, and give success to your servant today, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man.’ Now I was cupbearer to the king.” ( Nehemiah 1:11)

Nehemiah PRAYED to God before going into the presence of the king. When the king wondered about the sad look on Nehemiah’s face and realized there was something he desired to do, before Nehemiah responded to the king’s question he again PRAYED (apparently to himself) “to the God of heaven.” ( Nehemiah 2:4) Then as we continue through the book we find Nehemiah PRAYING again and again. When taunted by an enemy, HE PRAYED. (4:4) When plotted against, HE PRAYED. (4:9) When falsely accused, HE PRAYED. (6:8) When considering his enemies, HE PRAYED. (6:14) When assembling the people, HE PRAYED. (9:6) When confronting others, HE PRAYED. (13:14) And when focusing on getting all things in order according to God’s Will, HE PRAYED for God to remember him. (13:22, 29, 30) It appears there was almost nothing Nehemiah approached without PRAYER.

Paul urged the Christians in Ephesus toward…
“PRAYING AT ALL TIMES in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints,” ( Ephesians 6:18 ESV)

May our wisdom of looking to God’s guidance, help, and strength be evident in our life at all times. Like Nehemiah, let us recognize PRAYER as the key to effective and powerful living. (note James 6:16b) Getting down to business begins on our knees!

Have a great day BEING STRONG ENOUGH TO RELY ON GOD!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Prayer