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TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

I went to Jerusalem, and after staying there three days I set out during the night with a few others. I had not told anyone what my God had put in my heart to do for Jerusalem. There were no mounts with me except the one I was riding on. Nehemiah 2:11-12

Read: Nehemiah 2:11-20
Listen: Nehemiah 2

TODAY’S MESSAGE

Nehemiah receives devastating news about the city of Jerusalem and the condition of its walls and people. He grieves, fasts and prays before doing anything. He boldly approaches the king and sees God’s provision as the king lends support and supplies. Nehemiah then makes the long journey (over 800 miles) from Susa to Jerusalem. As he begins this monumental task, Nehemiah exhibits key character traits needed for any rebuild.

We see in Nehemiah’s rebuilding efforts the necessity of character for any effective rebuild. True, biblical character is about godliness in action. This week, we’ll discuss key character traits—humility, honesty, initiative and perseverance—required to rebuild in a God-honoring way. The sort of people we are becoming determines how we approach and conduct any rebuild. We can trust the Holy Spirit’s help in growing these qualities in us as we depend on God during a rebuild.

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Think about the four character traits we’ll discuss this week—humility, honesty, initiative and perseverance. Which of these four traits do you need to focus the most on right now? Write the trait in your journal or mobile device and ask God to help you do what you need to do to grow in these areas.

2023 SPIRITUAL PRACTICES

Join us all of 2023 developing a different spiritual practice each month. SPIRITUAL PRACTICES are intentional regular activities to deepen our relationship with God and mold us to be more like Jesus.

October is SERVING. Keep track of our spiritual practices at beyondtheweekend.org/spiritualpractices.

Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.