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Sometimes, the most potent lessons learned while reading a book are not printed on the pages but instead planted into our minds by the Holy Spirit.

That’s what happened this morning as I started re-reading Pivotal Praying, a book by John Hull and Tim Elmore.

One of the chapters dealt with the Christian’s heart cry to make a difference in a fallen world so gripped with pessimism. In the chapter, the authors discussed the idea of God’s leading for certain ministries.

Hull and Elmore recited the biblical accounts of Nehemiah’s leadership and how the walls were rebuilt because of faithfulness — God’s faithfulness to Himself and to His favorite city, Nehemiah’s faithfulness to God and to the place of a restored Jerusalem and the revived faithfulness of people who later felt their own sense of spiritual calling.

What occurred to me as I read their words and as I reflected on the entire book of Nehemiah was a phrase that came to my mind, communicating a principle that permeates the Bible and should permeate our lives.

“God will never place a burden in our hearts without placing resources in our hands.”

A massive rebuilding of the Jerusalem walls was needed. For some 70 years, the walls had sat in ruins despite the return of countless thousands of Hebrews from Babylonian exile.

The reason for the failed rebuilding was not the lack of materials, the book of Nehemiah showed.

What was lacking was the resolve to honor the Lord through the restoring of God’s favorite city and their national sense of dignity.

God called Nehemiah first with this mission. It was a profound sense of being called that can be studied in chapters 1 and 2 of the book. And then He reassured Nehemiah that all the material and people and inspiration and wisdom needed to complete the rebuilding task would be provided.

It was just a matter of learning and trusting and testing and inspiring and, most importantly, praying.

God clearly placed a burden on the heart of Nehemiah to lead the rebuilding effort.

And as Nehemiah moved forward in faith, in his sense of calling planted in his heart, he found that God provided all the material and people and wisdom and divine intercession resources needed for success.

Listen, if God is calling your heart to an area of greater layperson ministry in your congregation, don’t neglect your need to respond to this leading and provision.

Just remember to pray first. That’s what Nehemiah did. He fasted, too. You’ll be far more likely to walk in His power instead of your own. Others will see that and be more inclined to walk with you.

There’s much to be done for the Kingdom, my friend. Right within your own corner of the world.

Trust God’s call, purposes and provision.
Spiritual victories are on the other side of your decision.

As always, I love you
Martin

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