Prayerful Practicality

Read: Nehemiah 2

There are many problems in life that we will all face on a continual basis. Some may be small problems, while others appear to be daunting, with no clear solution or way around them. Some of us become satisfied with simply surviving, but we are made in the likeness of God, so we must seek to excel and thrive. In moments like these, we can learn from the leadership of Nehemiah. He was able to see a problem, cast a vision and begin a great process of change.

Nehemiah can be very relatable to us. He was able to take a pragmatic approach to leadership and problem solving. He demonstrates a prayerful practicality, with every problem being approached as part of God's plan and with submission to God's will. He also demonstrates advanced planning, clear communication and delegation. 

The first step in the process outlined by Nehemiah is to wait upon the Lord. He did not see the problem of Jerusalem's walls and gates being destroyed and rush off to the rescue without a plan. Our human nature and natural tendency is to see a problem and immediately attempt to solve it on our own strength. We first need to sit with God in prayer, and bring the problem to Him, seeking His will. Many things can be done after we pray, but we should not do things before we bring it to God in prayer. Nehemiah shows us not only to bring it to God before proceeding, but also while proceeding, as seen in his conversation with the king; "With a prayer to the God of heaven, I replied.." (Nehemiah 2:4). A formula is seen here, with a combination of waiting, proceeding carefully and praying, all at the same time.

The power of prayer cannot be overstated. We are not in control of answered prayers, only God is. We must honor God by praying and then waiting on Him, proceeding slowly in major decisions, and allowing Him to work. We must continue to pray while going through the process, aligning our vision with God's and setting out to do His will. We need to walk away from the idea of having instant prayers lead to instant answers. We should not expect priceless gifts such as answered prayers, to come cheap. They come with clarity and understanding, after spending time alone with God, reflecting on scripture, prayer and waiting on God.

“I replied, “The God of heaven will help us succeed. We, his servants, will start rebuilding this wall.”” (Nehemiah 2:20)

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word. Thank you for the many examples you have provided to your people throughout the Bible. I commit my life to you. I want your presence to accompany me throughout the day, for I need your strength. Help me to submit to your will, and correct me when I am off course. Help me to remain faithful in prayer and to be patient as I wait on your perfect response. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.