In what ways can we serve God like the men in Nehemiah 11:6? \A Snapshot of Nehemiah 11:6\ “All the sons of Perez who were living in Jerusalem were 468 capable men.” After the exile, families were asked to repopulate Jerusalem. The descendants of Perez stepped forward—468 of them—described as “capable” (literally “strong” or “valiant”). Their willingness kept God’s city functioning, defended, and spiritually vibrant. \Qualities Displayed by the Sons of Perez\ • Availability – They left familiar towns to live where God’s work needed hands. • Courage – Jerusalem was vulnerable; choosing the city meant accepting risk. • Competence – “Capable” points to proven ability; they offered their best skills. • Unity – They moved together as one clan, illustrating cooperative service. • Commitment – They stayed, not for a moment but for the long rebuilding season. \Translating Those Qualities into Today’s Service\ • Make yourself reachable: volunteer for roles that aren’t glamorous but essential—nursery duty, cleanup teams, small-town church plants. • Embrace godly risk: speak truth graciously, support missions in challenging areas, give sacrificially even when budgets feel tight. • Sharpen your gifting: take training, study Scripture, practice hospitality, refine musical or technical talents—then deploy them. • Pursue teamwork: join with believers across age or background lines; guard unity by refusing gossip and quickly forgiving. • Persevere: remain faithful long after the initial excitement—week after week, year after year. \Scripture that Reinforces These Patterns\ • 1 Corinthians 15:58 — “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast and immovable. Always excel in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” • Romans 12:1 — “Offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.” • Matthew 5:14 — “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.” • Philippians 2:15 — “so that you may be blameless and pure… in which you shine as lights in the world.” \Practical Next Steps\ 1. Identify one ministry need others overlook; commit to it for a defined season. 2. Schedule regular skill-building—Bible study group, leadership workshop, music lesson—whatever aligns with your gift. 3. Pair up with a fellow believer for mutual encouragement and accountability, echoing the unity of the Perez men. 4. Set a reminder each month to review your commitment level and ask the Spirit to renew courage and perseverance. |
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