6.4.23 - The Good Work
Week 1: When You Can’t Take It Anymore

… So they began the good work. —Nehemiah 2:18 NLT

²Hanani, one of my brothers, came from Judah with some other men, and I questioned them about the Jewish remnant that had survived the exile, and also about Jerusalem. ³They said to me, “Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire.”—Nehemiah 1:2-3 NIV

How Do You Begin the Good Work?

1) Sit down to

When I heard these things, I sat down and wept … —Nehemiah 1:4 NIV

Ask Yourself: What Breaks Your Heart?

2) Kneel down to

… For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven. —Nehemiah 1:4 NIV

… “LORD, the God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments, ⁶let 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.” —Nehemiah 1:5-6 NIV

… “Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man.” … —Nehemiah 1:11 NIV

3) Stand up and

The king said to me, “What is it you want?” Then I prayed to the God of heaven, ⁵and I answered the king, “If it pleases the king and if your servant has found favor in his sight, let him send me to the city in Judah where my ancestors are buried so that I can rebuild it.” —Nehemiah 2:4-5 NIV

TALK IT OVER

1. If you could make a difference in the world and time, money, and skill were no object, what would you want to do?
   

2. Read Nehemiah 1:2-6. What can you learn about starting a good work from Nehemiah’s example?
   

3. How can you use the passions, skills, and resources God’s given you to start a good work?