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TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

In the month of Nisan in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when wine was brought for him, I took the wine and gave it to the king. Nehemiah 2:1a

Read: Nehemiah 2:1-10
Listen: Nehemiah 2

TODAY’S MESSAGE

It’s been four months since Nehemiah heard about Jerusalem. He knows Israel was conquered and exiled 140 years ago but the people have been allowed to return to their homeland for 90 years. Yet the wall protecting the city is still in pieces and the few people who chose to return are in trouble. Nehemiah prays, fasts and likely seeks advice during those four months. He’s sad and afraid but ready to get moving.

Nehemiah’s forward movement helps us as we consider our own “rebuilds.” This week Nehemiah’s story reveals what it takes to begin moving forward. We see Nehemiah move beyond sadness, show courage during fear, volunteer to be sent and anticipate the challenges ahead. There are times when a rebuild is necessary in our lives. It might be a relationship, our finances, or something else. May we learn from Nehemiah and begin to take steps forward this week in whatever rebuild we face.

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Worship with the Ada Bible Worship team as they sing Build My Life. Declare to God, “I will build my life upon your love, it is a firm foundation.” Remember he is worthy and the only firm foundation on which to rebuild. End your time by inviting God to show you where you may need to rebuild this week.

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.