Hope to Disappointment
What are men and women full of passion and love for God to do when things move them from hope to disappointment? The Book of Nehemiah teaches us how to maintain our faith and purpose when hope seems gone and disappointment surrounds us. Take courage in God (2:20). Pray and work hard (4:4-6). Pray and be watchful (4:9). Maintain faith and steadfast courage (4:13 and 14). Rebuke when necessary and self-sacrifice (5:16 and 17). Sternly refuse to be distracted or compromise (6:1-14). Read the Word of God (8:1-8). Publicly confess sins and correct them (chapters 9-13). Frank J. Dunn concluded about The Book of Nehemiah, “Work, prayer, reverence for God, humble obedience, and vigilance are essential to success in our service to God and to our salvation and everlasting happiness in Christ. The Word of God is His power at work in us and the world to bring about change and accomplish His purpose (Romans 1:16; Hebrews 4:12; Psalm 19:7).