Foundations Day 29, Day 4

Scripture Read: Nehemiah 11
Title: Individuals Chosen to Live in Israel

H.E.A.R. 
(H) Highlight verse: "And the people blessed all the men who willingly offered to live in Jerusalem."  Nehemiah 11:2

(E) Explain:  God had called certain people to live in Jerusalem once the rebuilding of the wall was complete.  These individuals willingly chose to respond to God's call to move into the city which was still not fully functioning.  They were choosing to live in any area that was still in shambles.  These individuals were choosing to start new lives in the city and  uproot their families (if theyhad them)to serve God in the city.  These men were chosen by God (through casting of lots)and they faithfully served Him as they sought to reestablish the city to its former glory.

(A) Application:  Where you are is where God has placed you.  This is a truth that we all need to embrace.  God has sovereignly chosen you and me to serve Him where we are today.  This may be comforting to some or it may be somewhat discouraging to others.  We sometimes have the natural tendency to not be satsfied where we are in life at the present.  But we need to be encouraged that God has a plan for you where you are today.  Sure, the weather may be undesireable, the economy may be in the tank, your city may be dying or dirty where you live, or maybe it's paradise.  Either way, we need to come to terms with the reality that God has you where you are today.  So what are you going to do about that?  Complain?  Be miserable?  Be lazy?  Grow apathetic?  How about we seek God and ask Him to use us right where we are today so that we can be Christ in our cities (small towns, villages, communities, and neighborhoods).  There is work to be done for the Kingdom of God and it may not be a glorious task, but God has called us to do it; so let's be faithful in serving Him where He has placed us.

(R) Respond: Lord, may I serve you where I am today.  I do not want to complain, be miserable grow lazy or apathetic.  May I not focus on my surroundings, but focus on Your Kingdom work.