Rebuilding: Getting a Fresh Start

This past Sunday we spoke of Nehemiah’s God-sized burden for the returned exiles to Jerusalem. The walls were broken, and the gates were devastated with fire. After the last fire here in Ruidoso, I remember walking with an Assessor from our disaster relief team. He took me through the rubble of a homeowner that had given us permission to clean her lot. The walls were broken and destroyed. The articles of life were burned beyond recognition. The homeowner joined us and picked up a half-burned picture frame. She sat down on the edge of a broken wall and started to cry. We kneeled next to her, and I asked her if we could pray with her. She agreed. At these moments, we have so many more questions than we have answers. We had the blessing and privilege to be the hands and feet of Christ to this woman. A few minutes later, we shared the good news of the gospel of Jesus with her. Jesus can help us pick up the pieces of life and give us a fresh start. I’m thankful for that memory and that opportunity to witness.

Getting a fresh start rebuilding our lives begins with making an honest evaluation. Nehemiah started by getting an honest evaluation of the broken down walls and gates and how it was affecting the people. As you look at your life, are you making honest evaluations and getting to the root of the issues of life? The second step to rebuilding involves identifying with the need. Nehemiah sat down and mourned, calling upon God for help. He felt the needs and had compassion upon his fellow Jews. How do you connect with the needs of those around you? The next step to rebuilding involves taking personal responsibility. Nehemiah was quick to own his own sin and brokenness. He recognized he was a part of the sin problem. Are you willing to admit your own sin? Are you willing to be a a part of the solution, and not just a part of the problem? The final step of a rebuilder is stepping out of one’s comfort zone. Nehemiah was in the comfort of the king’s palace. He had it made because the King trusted him as the cupbearer. Perhaps today God is calling you to do something that will stretch your comfort levels. Will you be obedient and step out of your comfort zone?

The best thing that comes with rebuilding is that God is glorified through our obedience. God wants to “make all things new” in our life. His power and His healing are available for the rebuilding process. Will you trust Him to help you rebuild? God never leaves us nor forsakes us. Our God is Big and He is Faithful. When God gives you a burden to be involved in His work of redemption, will you follow the steps of a rebuilder?

Praying for my Church Family!

Pastor Todd