Praying & Planning
“As soon as I heard these words I sat down and wept and mourned for days, and I continued fasting and praying before the God of heaven.” (Neh. 1:4)
“Then the king said to me, “What are you requesting?” So I prayed to the God of heaven.” (Neh. 2:4)
Months had passed between Nehemiah’s response to the news from Jerusalem (mourning, fasting, and praying) and his silent prayer now before answering the king’s question about his future plans.
What was Nehemiah up to in the time between learning of the great need in Jerusalem and this open door to access the king’s resources and journey back to his homeland?
Certainly he had continued to fast and pray, and lead others to do the same. But his ready answer to the king’s question reveals other wise activity in Nehemiah’s life in conjunction with his praying and fasting.
Nehemiah had been planning; he was ready with a sure and detailed accounting of what he would be eager to do if/when God opened the door in answer to his prayer.
As we seek fresh vision for fulfilling our mission, pray for our leaders who are counting the cost, developing plans, and equipping the saints so that we are ready, like Nehemiah, when God opens the door.
Prayer/Challenge
Count the cost, consider your preparation, pray for open doors, and be ready to give an answer for the sure hope that is within you. For the glory of God and the salvation of the lost!
