Nehemiah 11:2. “And the people blessed all the men, that willingly offered themselves to dwell at Jerusalem.” OFFERED THEMSELVES.
They left their homes; their places of inheritance; their comfort zone The call was urgent; the need was great; they could meet the need Others stayed where they were; supporting; fulfilling a different role But each was important; God knew who to pick for His work.
Leaving the comfort of pastoral calmness; of peace and quiet Into the city with noise, and people, and more people – travelers On the road to eternity; needing what you have to give – yourselves Not everyone will say “Thank you” – but you offered yourselves.
God delegates as He sees fit – the work is totally strange You have never done this before – this work is inside And others are there too; you’ve always worked alone Now you must learn to work with others – under pressure.
The pressures of expectation – the proximity of people The stigma of a country person living and working in a city Feelings of inadequacy overwhelm you and you are afraid But God is God: and you must learn to trust Him.
Your faith has always followed predictable paths Now you can’t see beyond the next step In the past you could do what you wanted to Your own personal skill now gives way to God’s will.
Your time is not your own, there are matters concerning the people There is business in God’s house – you are it! Take responsibility over the outward business Let others do their work – it is different – offer yourself.
“Lord God, the business of this day awaits my best efforts. Give to Thy servant right words, right attitudes and right actions to fulfill Thy will. I feel so inadequate – but I trust Thee because I know Thee. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”