Andrew Musch - As a boy I began to tell people that I was saved. I did this so the people around me who loved me would quit being so worried about me not being saved. I also tried to convince my own heart I was saved, forgiven and on my way to Heaven.
Memory Verse: Romans 8:31 Memory Verse Text: If God be for us, who can be against us?
Point 1: The work of rebuilding had stalled. There was much reproach. Nehemiah is moved to tears and mourning and earnest prayer. He acknowledges again his sin and the peoples and their unworthiness. But he remembers that God promised restoration Neh1:8-11 Point 2: Nehemiah, the king's cupbearer, is given the king's attention and speaks of why he is sad. He makes what might seem an impossible request and a more unexpected answer that he may go to build the city of Jerusalem. Even more is granted - ie the supplies to do it - because "the hand of God" was upon him 2:8 Point 3: God put this work in his heart. And a few good men joined with him. He encourages others by telling them of the good hand of God upon him. Opposition follows ch 4, and prayer is the natural response of Nehemiah and they continued to build the wall 4:6. More outward opposition still and discouragement falls on some of the builders. Problems arise from within as well - Selfishness slows the work ch5. Sanballat and Tobiah and others try to harm the leader by distracting him 6:1-2 but Nehemiah is aware of the great work he is doing and will not yield. Even the threat of a murderous plot does not cause him to be discouraged for God was with him in the work. Point 4: The wall was finished after 52 strenuous days. Their heathen enemies were cast down because they "perceived that this work was wrought of our God!"
This Sunday School Curriculum guide is part of a 254 Sunday School Lesson Book available at www.gospelhall.org. See the Downloads Section of the site for a complete copy.
Andrew Musch
