How can we encourage others to willingly serve, as seen in Nehemiah 11:2? Scripture at a Glance “ And the people blessed all the men who volunteered to live in Jerusalem.” (Nehemiah 11:2) What Made Their Service Willing? • They heard God’s call to repopulate the holy city (Nehemiah 11:1). • They counted it an honor, not a burden, to advance the worship and witness of Israel. • They received open, public affirmation: “the people blessed” them. Keys to Encouraging Willing Service Today • Celebrate volunteers openly – Public gratitude stirs hearts: “Let the elders who lead well be counted worthy of double honor” (1 Timothy 5:17). – Joy is contagious; when one believer’s service is celebrated, others sense the privilege (1 Chronicles 29:9). • Connect service to God’s bigger story – Nehemiah tied relocation to restoring God’s dwelling place. – Likewise, link every role—greeting, teaching, maintenance—to Christ’s mission (Ephesians 2:19-22). • Lead by example – Nehemiah himself left a comfortable post in Persia (Nehemiah 2:5). – People follow visible commitment (Philippians 3:17). • Appeal to willing hearts, not forced duty – “Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7) – Invite participation; avoid guilt-driven pleas. • Speak blessing over servants – Words carry weight: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21). – A simple, sincere “We bless you for stepping up” mirrors Nehemiah 11:2. • Show the eternal reward – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart… knowing that you will receive the reward of an inheritance from the Lord.” (Colossians 3:23-24) – Future glory motivates present sacrifice. • Provide practical support – Nehemiah arranged housing listings (Nehemiah 11:3-36). – Supply training, materials, and reasonable schedules so willingness is not squandered by frustration. • Encourage one another daily – “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds.” (Hebrews 10:24) – Personal notes, quick texts, and hallway thank-yous keep momentum alive. Snapshot of Blessing Language You Can Use • “Your willingness is a gift to the whole body.” • “We bless you for moving outside your comfort zone.” • “Your service reflects Christ’s servant heart.” (Mark 10:45) • “Because of you, others will worship more freely.” Putting It into Practice 1. This week, publicly acknowledge at least one volunteer by name. 2. Share how their role connects to God’s redemptive plan. 3. Offer concrete help—childcare, transportation, resources—to anyone considering a new area of service. 4. Regularly remind the congregation of God’s promised reward for willing servants. Bottom Line Bless, celebrate, and support volunteers the way Nehemiah’s community did. When people see that service advances God’s glory, is affirmed by God’s people, and brings lasting reward, willingness flourishes. |
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