The Nehemiah Story
Part Five - The Preparation

The Bible does not include a detailed description of Nehemiah’s “Jerusalem Mission 445bc.” But, enough information is given for us to understand the mission ‘pattern.’

First, God revealed to Nehemiah that He was working in Jerusalem, through the preacher Ezra, even though the city was in shambles. Next, God placed a burden on Nehemiah’s heart to rebuild the physical city and help rebuild the spiritual lives of the people.

Then Nehemiah, through prayer, confessed his sins and admitted his shortcomings. He acknowledged that what he was about to do was God’s work but he would need ‘earthly’ hands and feet and the approval of King Artaxerxes.

Then he waited and planned for 4 months. When he felt the timing was right, he approached the king. He presented his burden and plans to the king and queen. With just a few questions they not only approved his mission project but agreed to provide some of the supplies.

How does this relate to EGTMInc’s mission plans? First, we keep our eyes, ears and hearts open. We wait for God to place a burden on our heart. When He does, we know that God is at work in that specific area and that is our invitation to join Him.

The burden is shared with our Praying the Darkness Away Ministry team and other key missionaries. They start praying that the ministry leaders will be given wisdom to make correct decisions. As mission preparations get underway, they pray for deliverance from any strategy that the evil one might use to interfere with the project. Then, they start praying that God will burden the hearts of those that He has chosen to be a part of the ministry and mission teams.

Once we know that we are covered with prayer, we become the loving hands and feet of Christ. Just as Nehemiah did, we start making our needs known to those that can help provide the resources that will be needed. Of course, we are thrilled when any financial gifts, or gifts of materials or services are provided, but we know that each one comes from God and He gets all the glory and praise.

In the next Newsletter, we learn about ‘The Inspection.’