Press the reset button

Press the reset button

Reference Nehemiah 1:9

But if we return to Him and follow what He told us to do, He will gather us from wherever we’ve ended up and place us back in the spot He chose to mark with His Name, the place He has chosen to set His Name.

Nehemiah offered a heartfelt prayer rooted in covenant, scripture, and patriotism. Curious about his homeland, Jerusalem, and the condition of those who had escaped captivity, he sought news. The Babylonians had destroyed the city, but Hanani’s report deeply grieved him, prompting him to ask the king for permission to rebuild. Nehemiah’s position in the Persian court played a key role in what followed. Instead of rushing to Jerusalem, his sorrow moved him to pray a prayer of confession and petition. In Nehemiah chapter 2, we read of the “favor” he received from King Artaxerxes I, who granted him leave, letters of safe passage, and materials to restore the city.

Nehemiah was deeply moved, spending days weeping, fasting, and praying—this prayer would shape the course of his mission and the leadership role he was stepping into. What stands out is that no matter the condition, situation, place, or background we return from, He is always ready to bring about the changes needed for His Glory and abundance. 

What a privilege it is to receive from Him when we’re ready to reset, submit, seek, and keep His commandments. When we choose to draw near to Him, He is always ready to embrace us and work on our behalf to set things right according to His eternal plan.

We see this with Hannah, who in her deep distress prayed to the Lord and was blessed with Samuel. James 5:16 reminds us that the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. Paul urges us to pray without ceasing. Esther and her companions prayed, fasted, and mourned for the redemption of the Jewish communities. Apostle Luke encourages constant prayer (18:1), while Apostle Matthew shares the secret of going into a private room, shutting the door, and praying to our Father in Heaven, who will reward us openly.

Great and awesome God, loyal to Your covenant and faithful to those who love You and obey Your commandments! Please hear this prayer, turn our hearts back to You, and remember us. We are ready to do the things You have called us to do—gather us together again, place us where You choose, according to Your ways and purpose. Grant us mercy and favour to succeed in the tasks You have permitted and assigned to us. May all we do bring glory to Your Name, just as Nehemiah rebuilt the walls and gates. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Sabbath Shalom from Kent, London.

In His Grip