The Gracious Hand of God

Then I told them about how the gracious hand of God had been on me, and about my conversation with the king. They replied at once, “Yes, let’s rebuild the wall!” So they began the good work.  Nehemiah 2:18

As we prepare for the National Day of Prayer, we can learn a life long lesson from Nehemiah, that the favor of God was with him. Nehemiah who lived under the Old Covenant had God’s favor temporarily given to him to rebuild the wall of Jerusalem. But under the New Covenant because of Jesus’ sacrificial death and resurrection and return to heaven, Holy Spirit now indwells every believer and God’s favor is with us always.

The favor of God prepared Nehemiah with wisdom to talk with the King, to see what needed to be done and then secure the materials needed to do the job. It inspired the people to agree with the undaunting task before them and to stand firm and continue on in the face of opposition throughout the project.

We too need the favor of God as we continue to do His work. As we seek His face and presence, He gives us His wisdom and discernment and find that even those at odds with us begin to work with us for to accomplish goals that will benefit everyone. Even those who stay in opposition will find that the power of God is able to accomplish the impossible, even bring people together.

In this time of such deep division in our nation, it is so important for us to take to heart the words of Jesus when He said we are to love others, as He has loved us(John 15:12). In order to do what Jesus is asking, we truly need His favor, love, grace and mercy. And to remember, nothing is impossible with God.