Summary: One of the hardest parts of serving in the local church is seeing upcoming or impending problems on the horizon and yet lack the authority to do anything about it. Looking at the example of Nehemiah, consider if you have the insight to see problems others do not see, and a walk with God that allows you to pray at a moment’s notice when you are called upon to provide a solution.
One of the hardest parts of serving in the local church is seeing upcoming or impending problems on the horizon and yet lack the authority to do anything about it. Maybe you can relate. I mean, how uncomfortable is it to have the gift of foresight, the ability to see around corners, and lack the power to avoid the disaster your fight has allowed you to see. You might say, “Josh, I see problems needing addressed, but lack the power and authority to bring about change.” I have been there and I have done that. However, there is hope.
Let’s look at Nehemiah. Nehemiah had been carted off from Israel to Babyalon during the deportation. He was in a foreign country. He was serving under a pagan and ruthless king. He held a position, but not the ultimate position. Nehemiah was not a decision-maker. Nehemiah saw a problem. He was grief stricken as he learned about the drama and trauma surrounding his beloved Jerusalem. He saw problems needing addressed. But he did not hold the keys to the car. He was in the passenger seat of a foreign regime. It was from this position that he humbly leveraged his influence, prayed an instantaneous prayer and was used greatly of God to rebuild the city gates and walls of Jerusalem.
Let me challenge you with several things: First, do you have the insight to see problems others do not see? Second, do you have the ability to create solutions when others only see problems? Third, do you have the type of walk with God that allows you to lob up a prayer at a moment’s notice when you are abruptly called upon to provide a solution to the problem?
Let’s be like Nehemiah.