Favor

Thursday, January 17, 2019, the storm had just began, but I persisted in peace. However, that didn't mean I wasn't freaking out. My flesh was full of anxiety, not accepting my spiritual dependency on God's promise. It was so funny because I thought I was in shock, however it was just my flesh in shock for not being in charge anymore. This is when I realized, "God has blessed me with His favor. My spirit is calm, however my flesh is anxious." I gave God all the glory, and spoke into existence my submission to His will, giving the Holy Spirit all the priority. I knew in my spirit, "I want God's Will to be done."

Nehemiah had something similar in mind. #Nehemiah2 illustrates the process of waiting on God. Nehemiah received immediate relief for forgiveness, but not answers as to what to do in regards to the Jewish remnants and Jerusalem. Nehemiah1:1 explains Nehemiah received the news from Hanani and the men of Judah in the month of #Chisleu (Also considered as #Kislew, the month of rest/sleep, or November/December) . Artaxerxes the King did not sponsor Nehemiah until the month of Nisan, recorded in Nehemiah 2:1-9. That's 5 months later. Nevertheless, Nehemiah kept unwavering faith, and once he was in the presence of Artaxerxes the King, ceased the opportunity. Nehemiah 2:2 delivers the observation of Artaxerxes of Nehemiah, and the humanity of the King's interests in his cup-bearer. God answered Nehemiah's prayer and provides sponsorship through Artaxerxes the King (Nehemiah 2:6-9)

In the midst of my storm, I do have friends that truly care about my well-being. Not all of my friends are on their journey to God's heart. This does not mean God will not use them to provide for His Will. God blessed Nehemiah to have the favor of Artaxerxes, who clearly was a pagan. Although, in Nehemiah 2:18, Nehemiah only reached out to a chosen few of God in Heaven to rebuild Jerusalem. From his decision to be selective in this manner, I interpreted to be grateful for the support, and vigilant of the supporters. Those who had a hand in repairing Jerusalem were followers of God,based upon their actions, they were clearly after the heart of God, fearing the Lord in love and obedience. This is the circle of friends we should to take counsel from, and have help rebuilding our lives in Jesus Christ.