They were Motivated They were Dedicated They were Cooperative

Chap 1 – Nehemiah, a man of God in prayer Listening to the report on Jerusalem Weeping over the ruins of Jerusalem Praying to a glorious God to rebuild, repair, & recover Chap 2 – Faith in Action Decision point – stepping out in faith … at any cost Build a plan Meet the resistance

When you face a big task, what helps you accomplish it? Read Nehemiah 3. When Nehemiah faced the huge task of rebuilding the wall, he found an easier way to accomplish it. What was his strategy?

How did the priests, who were leaders, view the manual work of rebuilding the wall? Why?  Compare vs 1 with vs 5  What principle do you see in James 4:17? How did Nehemiah view labor? Why? How does Nehemiah’s view of manual labor compare with yours? So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin. James 4:17

Note the number of times the phrase “next to him” is used. What is the significant to you? Have you ever been involved with a successful team effort in sports, business, or church?  What is the single most important ingredient to the success of a team? How is teamwork in a church supposed to work?  Corinthians 12:

1. Involve of everyone  The entire city gave itself over for 52 days  Its not just the Pastor or hired staff, but ministry of the church belongs to the congregation 2. Work together 3. Cooperation -- Work where you are placed strategically by God 4. Complete your assignment

How does God choose laborers? Who helped Shallum repair their section of the wall? Vs 12  How has God used women in building His kingdom? How did Nehemiah determine who would work where? In God’s kingdom, is some work more important than other work? Luke 2:36-38 John 20:1-2 John 20:10-18 Acts 16:14 & 15 Acts 21:9

What work is God giving you to do? (Your work might include things you have been doing for some time, and/or something new.)  If you don’t know how to answer this question, it could be something you pray about. What goes through your mind when you think about what God has given you to do or what He might be giving you? Are you refusing to do it?

Listen for God’s Word Listen for God’s Voice Listen to God’s People Look for God’s Fingerprints Take a step of faith Get into the Bible Pray/Worship in the Spirit Seek wise counsel Seek providential circumstances Obey what you know Source: Johnny and Beth Evens, 2012