As we step into the Book of Nehemiah in our "Life After Exile" series, we discover how God gives us burdens for the purpose of prayer AND action. As the cupbearer hears of the awful news in Jerusalem concerning walls that still lay in ruin, he is grieved. As a result, Nehemiah prays for FOUR MONTHS and allows God to birth a course of action to put feet to his faith. Finally, the day happens when the King of Persia permits him to travel back to Judah and rebuild the walls. Even in opposition, Nehemiah is steadfast, calling on God's help and calling the people to work. Today, we cannot separate our problems from prayer. Nor can we divorce prayer from action. As Augustine says, "Pray as if everything depends on God. Work as if everything depends on you." Message preached at Parker Memorial Baptist Church's DeArmanville Campus (ParkerDC).
