Recovery

“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.’”

— Nehemiah 2:17

A beautiful city lay destroyed and filled with rubble. That’s what Nehemiah and a remnant of Israel saw when they looked at Jerusalem. People sat for years unable to rebuild until one voice cried out with hope, “Let us build.” Nehemiah inspired the people and reminded them of God’s favorable hand. What seemed impossible was accomplished in fifty-two days.

When we face destruction, whether from natural disaster or brokenness of lives, we need to hope and trust in God. Many people in our country have a long road of rebuilding ahead of them and yet they have hope in God and hope from having seen communities rebuild after other disasters of fire, hurricanes and even terrorism.

Television stations across the country highlight a disaster, but quickly move on to the next news story and people in other regions go on with their lives. Nehemiah had forgotten about Jerusalem and its destruction until visitors came to him in Sousa and told him of the unrepaired wall of Jerusalem. That sparked his compassion, prayer and finally, action. God called Nehemiah to lead the rebuilding—not just of walls, but of hearts and faith in Him. Let us not lose sight of the needs of others, especially those recovering from disaster. 

Today’s One Thing

Do one thing today to help with recovery in your area or somewhere further away.

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