The Storm

Nehemiah 1 commences in the midst of a cry out to God for grace in regards to the Jewish captives, Nehemiah 1:2-11. Nehemiah's prayer was powerful. However, key things were vigilant to me in his prayer. Nehemiah included;

-> Worship: Nehemiah 1:4,5 Nehemiah was very grateful and meek when appealing to God. He approached God with fear in love, thanking Him for His, "covenant and mercy" (Nehemiah 1:5). Please do not mistake your confidence in the faith of God's covenant, with arrogance that your request is the Will of God.

-> Confession: Nehemiah 1:6-8 Nehemiah was confessed the sins of the people, and himself. What better way to acknowledge the sins we committed, but in front of God. Doing so He is able to see our sincerity in change, and for us, create a vulnerable atmosphere to subdue ourselves to God.

-> Repentance; Nehemiah 1:9-10 Nehemiah defines the legalism, and accountability at which the Jewish ruminants and himself were subject to as written in the old testament, by Moses in the presence of God. Thus in sincerity, he requests God's mercy for the people and himself in the contribution of forgiveness. The poetics of his prayer, is a painting of the pasture of a faithful remorse.

-> Submission: Nehemiah 1: 11 Nehemiah then humbled himself and made a faithful request from God.

This prayer is so powerful. In one passivity, Nehemiah supplicated to God for himself and his community. In the midst of your storm, how often do you pray with such competency for yourself and your community?