Preparation Time

Read

Nehemiah 1:4 "When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven."

Philippians 4:6 "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."

Think

Nehemiah is often celebrated as a leader who accomplished what seemed impossible—rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem in just 52 days. But before he led workers, managed opposition, or even lifted a stone, Nehemiah did something essential: he prayed. He poured out his heart to God for four long months, seeking his direction and wisdom. A 52-day construction project was built on a four-month foundation of prayer. That’s not how we usually measure success in today’s world, but Nehemiah understood something profound: before God could work through him, God needed to work in him.

Imagine the urgency Nehemiah must have felt. The city lay in ruins, and the people were exposed to danger. It would have been easy to immediately rush into action and fix the problem. But Nehemiah waited. He sought God’s guidance for months, trusting that prayer was not a delay but a preparation. During that time, God wasn’t just shaping a plan; he was shaping Nehemiah’s heart. Oswald Chambers once said, “Prayer does not fit us for the greater work; prayer is the greater work.” Nehemiah knew that the success of rebuilding the wall wouldn’t come from his strength or leadership alone but from a heart that God had prepared.

We often feel the pressure to act quickly when faced with a challenge. But Nehemiah shows us that prayer is where the real work begins. Through prayer, God gives us the strength, clarity, and vision to move forward. Nehemiah emerged from those four months with a plan and the courage and wisdom to lead through opposition, setbacks, and fear. His story reminds us that what God does in us during waiting times is just as important as what he will do through us.

So, what’s your "wall"? What burden do you feel is pressing for your attention? Instead of rushing in, take a step back and pray. Let God prepare your heart and guide your next steps. You might discover that the most significant work happens not in your actions, but in the moments of stillness with God.

Apply

Today, before you tackle your to-do list or make any big decisions, pause for a moment. Spend five minutes in prayer, asking God to guide your steps and give you clarity for the day ahead.

Pray

Lord, today I choose to start with you. As I go through my day, help me to seek your wisdom and direction in every situation. Guide my thoughts, decisions, and actions, and remind me that I don’t need to rush. In Jesus’ name. Amen.