The purpose of New Year's resolutions is simple: refusing to settle for the status quo, and resolving to change it. Unfortunately, most of us have experienced enough broken resolutions that we've become jaded. But what if we started viewing resolutions differently: less about improving ourselves and more about improving the lives of others? Less about achieving our dreams and more about aligning ourselves with God's dreams? Through the story of Nehemiah, we are invited to rise above self-improvement and embrace resolutions that will last way beyond January.
January 8 ''Discontent'' Nehemiah 1
After hearing reports that the Jerusalem wall is in ruins, Nehemiah's anguish leads him to tears, fasting, prayer...and the beginnings of a plan to address the problem. This is how any great endeavor begins: deep discontent with how things are, and determination to do something about it. Are we letting our hearts break for the things that truly matter...and are we willing to be part of the solution?
January 15 ''Starting'' Nehemiah 2:1-10
Nehemiah goes beyond good intentions and takes a huge personal risk by approaching the king, requesting permission to lead the effort to rebuild the Jerusalem wall. He is bold in his request, and when the king grants it, Nehemiah attributes his success to God's grace. Where is God calling us to step out in bold, risky faith, trusting Him for the results?
January 22 ''Vision'' Nehemiah 2:11 - 3:32
Nehemiah makes the journey to Jerusalem, and after inspecting the situation with his own eyes he's able to articulate a clear vision to the people. Nehemiah helps the people to see that this is not really about rebuilding a wall; it's about restoring the strength of Jerusalem, for their good and God's glory! Inspired by that vision, the people enthusiastically get to work on their portion of the wall.
January 29 ''Intimidation'' Nehemiah 4
Certain people, when they see the early success of the project, become threatened. They try to stop the project by intimidating and threatening the workers. Nehemiah's response is a brilliant balance of practical self-defense measures and earnest prayers for God's protection...all the while continuing the work at hand. In any great endeavor, there will be intimidation and discouragement. How will we respond?
February 5 ''Health'' Nehemiah 5
As the building project continues, it's revealed that there's injustice going on within the community: the rich oppressing the poor. Incensed at this internal sickness, Nehemiah takes measures to address the injustice and call for repentance...and his passionate confrontation is backed up by his personal example. When God calls us to build great things, he's just as concerned about our internal health as our outward accomplishments. (A huge, multiplying church is worthless if it's internally dysfunctional).
February 12 ''Celebration'' Nehemiah 8
Amazingly, the wall is completed in 52 days! When the people gather to commemorate the event, the reading of Scripture helps them remember God's grace and faithfulness...which leads to extravagant celebration, and a renewed resolve to follow God. Truly, there are times in life-especially when completing a major accomplishment-when the appropriate response is to celebrate, knowing that ''the joy of the Lord is our strength.''
