Making Requests

O. T. #1040  "Making Requests"
August 11, 2017
Nehemiah 2-Part 2
Then the king said unto me, For what doest thou make request? So I prayed to the God of heaven.  Nehemiah 2:4

LET  IT GLOW

We never know until we ask. We may be hesitant to ask something of our boss, spouse, or friend. Instead of thinking they may refuse our request, ask and see how they answer. It just might be affirmative. Nehemiah was at such a crossroad in his life.

Four months had passed since Nehemiah had heard the sad news of Jerusalem's broken walls and burnt gates. He knew that meant his  Jewish family was susceptible to enemy attacks in that condition. So Nehemiah prayed and prayed. The things changed-the king asked him why Nehemiah was sad. After Nehemiah explained, the king asked how he could help. King Artaxerxes, who ruled over the Medeo-Persian Empire, offered help to the Jews? Now that was an answer to prayer!

Nehemiah was afraid, so he quickly said a prayer. He boldly laid his request before the king: Would you send me to Judah to rebuild the city where my ancestors are buried? This would mean the king would loose his trusted official's service. Did such a request shock the king? Would he give permission to leave?

In Proverbs 21, we read  that the king's heart is like channels of water in the  Lord's hand. He turns it wherever He wishes. Like irrigation channels carrying water, God causes the king's heart to bend and incline in whatever direction He pleases. (Swindoll)


Folks, will you join together in praying for our President today as he deals with the threats on America?
We can boldly approach God through Jesus Christ in our time of need like Nehemiah did. We can ask King Jesus for His guidance, protection, and deliverance. Almighty God is the only king victorious and sovereign forever. Let us praise Him.

LET IT GROW

What a timely lesson!
The king asked Nehemiah how long his journey would be and when he would return. Nehemiah gave the king an answer. Scripture does not tell us his answer. (He ended up staying 12 years.)

Another request was made for letter granting permission to travel throughout the land on his way to Judah. Also, letters giving Nehemiah timber for the walls and gates and his house. It was all granted.

God gives us power to be strong, courageous, and fearless as we face difficult or trying situations. He did it for Moses and Joshua. He can do it for us.

Do we hesitate to ask others for help? God's answers to our prayers may come in that form.
Are we hesitant to ask God for something on our heart, a burden? Do we have faith the size of a mustard seed? He just might grant it, as the king did for Nehemiah.


LET IT GO

Ask, pray, seek God's will.