Devotional – Preparing for giving (Day 1)
In Nehemiah 2:17-18 it reads, “Then I said to them, “You see the trouble we are in: Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been burned with fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace. I also told them about the gracious hand of my God on me and what the king had said to me.”
They replied, “Let us start rebuilding.” So they began this good work.
What is your response to the collective need? The story of Nehemiah is a clear example of a response to a need that involved all Jews: the rebuilding of Jerusalem.”
- Active attitude: Nehemiah understood the need and acted (Neh. 2:5). When he heard about the dire state of Jerusalem’s walls, he didn’t just lament the situation—he prayed, planned, and then took action. Nehemiah’s example shows us the importance of not merely identifying problems but stepping up to address them. When the Lord allows you to see needs and places burdens on your heart, your response must be active. It’s easy to remain passive or assume someone else will take care of the issue, but Nehemiah teaches us the value of being proactive in service to God. Action, when combined with faith, can move mountains. We must be ready to step into the gaps, trusting that God will guide us as we take the first steps.
- Involve others: A collective need requires a collective response. Nehemiah knew that the task of rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls was too big for one person alone, no matter how passionate or capable. Recognizing this, he invited others to join him in the effort. Nehemiah had the wisdom to understand that God’s work is often accomplished through community. He boldly shared his vision with the people of Jerusalem, telling them, “I also told them about the gracious hand of my God on me and what the king had said to me.” (Neh. 2:18). His confidence stemmed from knowing that God was behind him, which gave him the courage to rally others. Nehemiah’s certainty in God’s provision empowered him to inspire those around him. Likewise, when we involve others in the work God has placed on our hearts, we allow the body of Christ to function as it was designed—working together toward a common goal, strengthened by the assurance that God’s hand is in it.
- Result of obedience: Nehemiah’s obedience to God’s calling led to an incredible, unified response. The people’s reaction was immediate and resolute: “So they strengthened their hands for the good work” (Neh. 2:18). When Nehemiah stepped out in faith and shared God’s vision with others, it ignited a collective determination to complete the task. The people didn’t hesitate or question the feasibility of the project—they responded with action. This shows the power of obedience. When leaders act in faith, others are often inspired to follow. Nehemiah’s obedience produced results, and soon all joined in the massive effort to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. The community came together as one cohesive unit, showing that when God’s people unite under a common purpose, incredible things can happen. The rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls was not just a physical restoration, but also a spiritual renewal, as the people’s hearts were revived and aligned with God’s will. Through obedience, they accomplished what once seemed impossible.
Take a moment to reflect: What walls are you called to rebuild? How will you respond when there is a need?
Do you sense there is a need? Whether it was placed on your heart or someone confided in you, we encourage you, in unity, to take steps of obedience, and together we will watch God as he rebuilds the walls.
Over the next few days we will learn how to prepare our hearts for the calling to give.