A Message To Motivate | Nehemiah 2:16-18

Then I said to them, “You see the trouble we are in, how Jerusalem lies in ruins with its gates burned. Come, let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we may no longer suffer derision.” And I told them of the hand of my God that had been upon me for good, and also of the words that the king had spoken to me. And they said, “Let us rise up and build.” So they strengthened their hands for the good work. — Nehemiah 2:17-18 SHOUT OUT: Elliot Engen and his wife, my daughter Faith, who just announced they are going to be parents. Which makes me a grandparent. Thanks so much for making me feel even older!  In the book of Nehemiah, we find a profound example of leadership that speaks directly to the challenges and opportunities that we, as men, often face in our personal and spiritual lives. Nehemiah's response to the devastation of Jerusalem is not just a historical account; it is a powerful blueprint for how we can respond to the ruins and the burned gates in our own lives. Here are four things Nehemiah does exceedingly well in this message to motivate the workforce. First, Nehemiah demonstrates a deep sense of identification with the people. He declares, “You see the trouble we are in.” This isn’t just about observing a problem; it's about feeling it. As men, we are often called to lead, whether in our families, workplaces, or communities. But leadership begins with empathy. It begins with understanding the struggles, pains, and challenges that those around us are facing. It’s about standing with them in their troubles, not apart from them or walking past them. Second, Nehemiah is unflinchingly realistic. He doesn’t downplay the situation or sugarcoat the reality. The walls are indeed in ruins, and the gates have been burned. As men, we need to be honest about the state of our own walls – be it our spiritual life, relationships, or moral boundaries. We must assess our situations honestly, acknowledging our weaknesses and the areas where we need rebuilding. Third, Nehemiah is committed to action. He doesn’t just talk about building the walls; he mobilizes people to start the work. This is a critical lesson for us. Faith is not passive; it’s active. It’s not just about believing in God’s power to restore and rebuild but also stepping out in faith to be part of that process. We are called to be men of action, to take initiative in repairing and strengthening the broken areas of our lives and those of others. Fourth, Nehemiah’s confidence is rooted in God’s grace. He shares his personal testimony of God’s favor, encouraging others to trust in God’s guidance and provision. This is the cornerstone of Christian leadership – leading by faith. We are called to be men who not only trust in our abilities but primarily in God’s power and guidance. Our strength comes from Him, and our actions should be a reflection of our trust in His plan and purpose for us. As I think about becoming a grandparent, I am reminded that the legacy we leave is not just in the physical or material things we build but in the spiritual and moral foundations we lay down. Just as Nehemiah led the people to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls, we are called to build and fortify our lives, our families, and our communities on the principles of God’s Word. And to Elliot and Faith, as you embark on this incredible journey of parenthood, remember that the greatest structure you will ever build is not one of bricks and mortar, but the nurturing and shaping of a life in the ways of the Lord. May you be blessed with wisdom, strength, and joy as you step into this new chapter. The story of Nehemiah is a call to each of us to rise and build. To build not just with our hands, but with our hearts, our faith, and our lives committed to God’s purpose. It’s a call to be leaders in our own realms, leading by example, in empathy, in action, and in faith. Let us then strengthen our hands for the good work, knowing that the hand of our God is upon us for good. ASK THIS: Nehemiah’s leadership began with a deep sense of empathy and identification with his people. Reflect on your own life and leadership roles – how can you more effectively empathize with and understand the challenges faced by those around you? In your family, workplace, or community, what specific steps can you take to stand with others in their struggles, rather than simply observing from a distance? Nehemiah didn’t just recognize the need for rebuilding; he took decisive action, motivated by his faith in God’s guidance. In what areas of your life do you see a need for rebuilding or restoration (such as relationships, spiritual life, personal habits)? Discuss how you can combine active efforts with a strong faith in God’s plan to initiate positive changes. Share specific examples where you have seen the impact of pairing faith with action, either in your life or in the lives of others. DO THIS: Like I did, share a message that God is giving you to motivate those around you.