In our last visit we began a study of the topic of prayer as seen in Nehemiah. We collected information we found on prayer in Nehemiah and correlated it into an outline.
Point one was we should pray before starting a work for God. Nehemiah prayed about the conditions in Jerusalem. Over time he gathered more information, which burdened him to pray more fervently. As he prayed, urgency grew in his heart. When God opened a door he prayed immediately before he took the first step.
Then he prayed while doing the work. He prayed for strength, for encouragement and for God to remove the opposition. As he prayed, he worked. As he worked, he prayed. And God enabled him and his people to succeed.
When the project was done, further prayer followed. Sometimes we get so involved in our work for God that we neglect our inner lives. The people sensed this and asked for help. Ezra and Nehemiah read God’s Word to them, and this led to worship, confession and commitment, all expressed in prayer.
This is the only way to do God’s work. Spend time in prayer before you start a work. Pray during the work. Then renew your commitment to prayer after the work is done. Communion with God is essential for power, perseverance and permanence in all you do for God. Never forget prayer.
If this study has been an encouragement to you, I’d suggest you renew your commit to prayer even as Nehemiah did.
