Prayer

Nehemiah, cupbearer to King Artaxerxes of Persia, and Jew in exile, heard the news that his homeland was struggling. The captives had begun to return from exile in Babylon, but the walls of Jerusalem were still a mess. So Nehemiah takes his heart to God in prayer. Nehemiah 1:4-11 records the words of Nehemiah as he talks to God. His prayer shows us so much about surrender. First, Nehemiah remembers that God is in control, that God is sovereign. Second, Nehemiah remembers and confesses his sin. He knows that God is holy, and that only God can make man holy. As Nehemiah walks closely with God, he covers himself in the mercy and grace of God. Third, Nehemiah remembers the promise of God. God has told His people that restoration and a return to relationship is possible. Fourth, Nehemiah asks God to act. He knows that God is able. He knows that God has the power to change the lives of men. As we walk with Nehemiah this week, remember the surrender that Nehemiah models for us. As we come to God, God moves in us.