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APPROACH TO SERVICE (I)
THURSDAY, JANUARY 8
Nehemiah 2:9-20

Psalm 37:23-34

 

“The steps of a good man are

ordered by the LORD.”

 

APPROACH TO SERVICE (I)
 
Christian service requires the preparation of the heart, and clarity and stability of the mind. In addition, there is also the need for wisdom and carefulness in the approach one makes to service. One’s preparations and plans can be hampered and undermined by the approach one takes when it comes to the actual service. This is because in serving, there may be circumstances, situations and foes that are unforeseen. In Nehemiah’s case, his heart and prayers opened doors for service. His planning, preparation and tact granted him favour and provisions from the king. But upon reaching Jerusalem, other things came to light that were not known to him before his arrival in Jerusalem.
 
It grieved them exceedingly that there was come a man to seek the welfare of the children of Israel (Neh 2:10). The arrival of Nehemiah was not well received by two officials. The presence of someone from the royal court of the king with letters from the king, and an armed escort who could and would stand up to them, brought them great grief. How their jealousy and grief would translate into action was, at the time of Nehemiah’s arrival, unknown to him. All Nehemiah had at that time was the knowledge he had gathered from the information from the brethren he had spoken to while at Shushan, the burden God had placed in his heart, and the opportunity God had accorded him through the king to discharge the burden.
 
So, I came to Jerusalem, and was there three days (Neh 2:11). This gives us an introduction to Nehemiah’s approach to service. He did not rush into the work, though it was a great work. He took time before starting the work. He took time to make a personal assessment of the place. He did this the night he went out to view the walls of Jerusalem (Neh 2:12-16). After that, he enlisted and encouraged support and participation from others who shared the same burden (Neh 2:17-18).
 
THOUGHT: I am responsible not only for the work done, but also for the way I pursue the work.

PRAYER: Grant me grace to glorify Thee by my character as I serve Thee.

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