Dedication and determination, the book of Nehemiah, will inspire you. It will allow you to realize that you can overcome anything. When you dig deep within and are put to the test, you will realize that you can bring hope and help to others. You will look around you and see that God will use all manner of people and places to do kingdom work. You will walk in humility and gain knowledge that it is not by your doing but by the glory of God.
So, where do you look? You look to God for all things. What can you do when you do not know what to do? Pray. Where can you find examples of what you may be going through? In the Bible. Where do you look for a story about dedication and determination? The book of Nehemiah.
Here is Nehemiah's Prayer:
“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, 6 let 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. I confess the sins we Israelites, including myself and my father’s family, have committed against you. 7 We have acted very wickedly toward you. We have not obeyed the commands, decrees, and laws you gave your servant Moses.
8 “Remember the instruction you gave your servant Moses, saying, ‘If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the nations, 9 but if you return to me and obey my commands, then even if your exiled people are at the farthest horizon, I will gather them from there and bring them to the place I have chosen as a dwelling for my Name.’
10 “They are your servants and your people, whom you redeemed by your great strength and your mighty hand. 11 Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man.”
I was cupbearer to the king. ( Nehemiah 1:4-10 NIV)
What are you dedicated to? Are you dedicated to the one that helps you the most?
Dedication and determination seem easy. You may think you are the most loyal, dedicated, and determined person in the world; until you mention God. Now the conversation shifts to "He knows my heart" and " I know I missed the mark, but my God is forgiving." If your dedication and determination are not starting with God, how can it begin with anyone else?
Please take the time to read the book of Nehemiah in your spare time.
* I do not own the rights to the scripture*
