DETERMINED
Pastor Jeremy Helmuth
January 13-15, 2023
“Restore the Ruins” (Nehemiah 2:1-10)
GODLY DETERMINATION
Have you ever been in a situation when you needed to approach someone in authority and you wanted them to use their power to change a situation? If you want to help convince someone of God’s will, follow Nehemiah’s example.
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Discussion Questions
Getting Started
- “I was very much afraid” (Neh 2:2). One has to admire Nehemiah’s honest vulnerability. Are you sincere about your weaknesses? Or do you cover up your raw emotions, trying to present before the world a perfect person?
Digging Deeper
God is the only One who can change a person’s heart. He does this for His purpose, and even judges those who are deceived by their own sin (Ezekiel 36:26; Proverbs 21:1; 1 Samuel 10:9; Daniel 4:16). Why is it important for us to realize that we are limited in our arguments with others?
What does God have to say about “planning” in His Word (Proverbs 3:5; 11:14; 15:22; 16:3; 19:21; 24:7)? How can you make sure your faith is balanced with preparation?
Applying the Word to Life
Do you need to stop trying to persuade someone and instead start praying for them? Dedicate a time daily that you will pray for God to change a situation that you are in. While you are praying, stop discussing it with others. Be patient and wait upon the Lord to do His work.
“The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty” (Proverbs 21:5). When you want to accomplish something, are you diligent? Do you consider the cost? Do you think about all the different aspects that need attention? Or have you ever rushed ahead in haste?
Meditate upon these four words this week before you confront anyone: Be patient, honest, prayerful, prepared.