Scripture to Read: Nehemiah 2:1-9
Nehemiah, and the people the king sent with Nehemiah, had to travel 800 miles from Persia to Jerusalem. Once Nehemiah arrived in Jerusalem, the real hard work would begin to unfold. Nehemiah had to meet with the governors of the regions beyond the Euphrates River. The river was an important landmark because it separated one area from another. Once Nehemiah crossed the river, he would have been on the road to the region of Judea and eventually to the city of Jerusalem. Nehemiah met with and spoke to the governors of this region who ruled under the Persian Empire. No doubt, Nehemiah presented the letters that the king gave to Nehemiah, for the governors of the provinces, so the governors would allow Nehemiah to pass through until he arrived in Judah. Through the king, God provided everything Nehemiah needed for safe passage for the 800-mile journey to Jerusalem. God even had the king provide Nehemiah officers from the army and their horsemen to assure safe travel. God will always provide what is needed for us to carry out His perfect will. The journey will probably be long and hard, for God never promised us this life would be easy. We must choose not to lose sight of all God has already done for us, and is now doing in us and through us, as we walk the journey He has laid before us. He truly does provide His abundance to us (2 Corinthians 9:8; Ephesians 3:20; Philippians 4:19).
Challenge & Application
1. What did God teach you today about meeting your needs to carry out His will?
2. How will you walk in obedience to our Lord this week, knowing all He has done for you and is still doing in you?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!