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by Dennis Wheeler
Approximately 438 years had passed since Solomon built a great temple in Jerusalem...and now it has come to Nehemiah's attention that the walls and gates of the city are in disrepair. More importantly, though, he realizes that in those 438 years, the nation of Israel has crumbled time and time again because of its disobediance to God.
So now, when Nehemiah becomes aware of the sad state of Israel and the gates of her city, he intercedes in prayer on behalf of both the scattered remnant and the city of Jerusalem. He asks God to forgive the people's sins, and in effect, give them another chance at being recognized as a nation - a nation that worships God.
God incredibly honored Nehemiah's prayer of intercession. He did so because Nehemiah was a man of action. God knew that he would give more than just lip service to uniting a nation...he would fight for it.
I think that it is symbolic that Nehemiah's intercession accomplished the rebuilding of a literal wall (in only 52 days!!!). However, his faithful action led to a spiritual rebuilding of the nation of Israel as well.
This coming Thursday, May 1st, is the National Day of Prayer. The theme for 2003 is "Righteousness Exalts A Nation". As nation we are being called to humble ourselves in the presence of God Almighty and prayerfully intercede on behalf of our nation. Let's be prayer warriors of action!
Be confident in the promise from God given to Solomon..."If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and heal their land." (2 Chronicles 7:14 - NLT)
Perhaps if we will pray on behalf of our nation...God will listen and help us turn back to Him.
He's done it before!!
He serves as the Senior Pastor with southwest Virginia church... a loving church family in Abingdon.
He and his wife Sharon have been married for over 27 years and are the proud parents of two beautiful daughters, one son-in-law, and two precious grandchildren, the second arrived arrived on the scene in September 2004!!
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