READ Nehemiah 1
Nehemiah weeps as he learns of Jerusalem´s deterioration.

INSIGHT
One of the essential characteristics of leadership is that the leader feels the full weight of the plight of certain people and assumes responsibility for their condition. Many people knew of Jerusalem´s condition, but few felt the impact and had the vision for response. Nehemiah did and God used him in a mighty way. What in life “hits” you? What situations cause you to feel the impact of the plight of others, and for what situations do you have a vision for response? It might be as large as a nation or as small as a church nursery. But if you feel it and have a vision for it, chances are God would like to use you there.

PRAYER
Being used by the Lord is a joyful experience. Praise Him as you consider how He might use you:
Lord, you have been our refuge  
In every generation.  
Before the mountains were born,
Before you gave birth
To the earth and the world,
From eternity to eternity, you are God.
Satisfy us in the morning
With your faithful love
So that we may shout with joy
And be glad all our days
(Psalm 90:1-2, 14).

As you seek to keep your life free from sin, pray this confession to the Lord:
“Come, let’s settle this,”  
Says the Lord.
Though your sins are scarlet,
They will be as white as snow;  
Though they are crimson red,
They will be like wool
(Isaiah 1:18).

Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind. Now pray this affirmation to the Lord:
Furthermore, if you call out to insight
And lift your voice to understanding,
If you seek it like silver
And search for it like hidden treasure,  
Then you will understand the fear of the Lord
And discover the knowledge of God
(Proverbs 2:3-5).

As you make your requests known to the Lord, include:

• Contentment in the circumstances of your life
• Greater sensitivity to sin
• The ministry of your local church
• Your activities for the day

Offer this closing prayer to the Lord:
Be strong, and let your heart be courageous,  
All you who put your hope in the Lord
(Psalm 31:24).