As we open the Book of Nehemiah, we find that Nehemiah learns about trouble in Jerusalem. These were his people, serving God - his God! Yet he was the King's Cupbearer in the palace; he wasn't in Jerusalem. What is he to do about these troubles?
- He didn't try to solve them.
- He didn't start talking about them.
- He didn't ignore the troubles, either.
The first thing that he did with his troubles was that he took them to God! He fasted and prayed and poured out his heart to the One Who knows all, and can provide peace and direction.
- He humbled himself in mourning and confessing sins, both his own, and those of his fathers and the children of Israel (vs. 4, 6).
- He prayed for those who served God, that they would be strengthened by Him, and prosper (vs. 10, 11).
- He kept on doing his responsibilities as a cupbearer (vs 11).
Ultimately God would direct and use Nehemiah in a great way in this situation, but this is where it started.
So what should you do with your troubles? Humble yourself before God; bring your troubles to Him. Pray for God's servants that are around you, such as your pastor and other co-laborers. Keep on keeping on, until God directs further action.
(Nehemiah 1:3-4) "And they said unto me, The remnant that are left of the captivity there in the province are in great affliction and reproach: the wall of Jerusalem also is broken down, and the gates thereof are burned with fire. And it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven,"