Rebuilding for a Greater Purpose

The Call of a People

From the very beginning, God has been calling a people to Himself. In the days of Nehemiah, those people were in trouble. The walls of safety were broken. The call of Nehemiah was clear: to restore and rebuild what had been broken. The physical city walls of Jerusalem lay in ruins, but this was more than just a structural failure. The destruction symbolized the brokenness of God’s people, both physically and spiritually. Just as Nehemiah was called to rebuild the walls, we are called today to rebuild what has been shattered in our lives and communities. But this rebuilding isn’t merely for safety—it’s for God’s glory, to establish a people set apart for His purpose.

A Heart of Compassion

When Nehemiah heard of Jerusalem’s plight, he didn’t remain indifferent. His heart broke for the people of God, and he immediately turned to prayer and fasting. His response wasn’t just about the city; it was about the condition of his people. How often do we hear about the suffering of others and feel that stirring in our hearts? Like Nehemiah, we are called to respond with compassion, to stand in the gap for those who are hurting, and to seek God’s will. Prayer becomes our first move, not a last resort. It’s in those moments of genuine intercession that God begins to shape us into the people He’s called us to be.

The Power of Prayer and Confession

Nehemiah’s prayer is a model of faith, humility, and dependence on God. He begins with praise, acknowledging God’s greatness, and then moves into confession. He confesses not just his own sins, but the sins of the people. This is a powerful reminder for Christians as God’s New Covenant people. We are not just individuals in our faith journey—we are part of a larger body. Corporate confession, as uncomfortable as it may be, brings healing and restoration. It acknowledges that we all fall short and are in need of God’s mercy. By owning our sins and the collective sins of the Church, we position ourselves to experience the grace of God in deeper ways.

Boldness Rooted in Faith

Nehemiah didn’t stop at prayer. His faith led him to take bold action. He asked God for favor as he prepared to approach the king with a dangerous request: to allow the rebuilding of Jerusalem. His boldness wasn’t rooted in his own abilities, but in his trust in God’s promises. When we truly understand who God is and the promises He’s made, we can approach Him with confidence. Our prayers can reflect this boldness, as we trust that God is able to do abundantly more than we can ask or imagine.

Rebuilding, whether in our own lives or in the world around us, begins with prayer, compassion, confession, and bold faith. Until Christ returns, God is still calling a people to Himself. The question remains: are we ready to respond and go?

— AARON DININNY

[Multiply] Executive Director