SCRIPTURE: NEHEMIAH 1:5-6
“And I said, ‘O Lord God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, let your ear be attentive and your eyes open, to hear the prayer of your servant that I now pray before you day and night for the people of Israel your servants, confessing the sins of the people of Israel, which we have sinned against you. Even I and my father’s house have sinned.”
OBSERVATION
When we pray, we must pray with faith. But, what do we use to build our faith? In this passage of scripture, Nehemiah prays to God as a covenant to keep on loving God. There is nothing that will build your faith like praying the promises of God. When we understand that God will always keep his promises, it gives us confidence when we ask Him to use us to do great things. Nehemiah reminds himself that they are God’s people and that God will restore them if they return to Him.
Nehemiah then begins to repent of anything that is against the promises of God. Nehemiah is saying, “God, I know you can do anything. Please forgive me for not believing you and being committed to your promises.” We must do the same.
APPLICATION
What is holding you back from believing God can do great things through you? Is it a lack of faith or of trust, or is it an unwillingness to follow His commands? Take time to examine your heart, and remind yourself of the promises of God. Whatever it is, realign your life with the promises of God and pray for understanding today.
PRAYER
“Today, Jesus, help me to believe for great things. Remind me of your promises, and help me to trust in them. Today, I lay aside any doubt or fear that would keep me from stepping out in faith. I trust in your promises today.”