They tell you to sit down before they speak. When Nehemiah heard the remnant lived in affliction and reproach, the wall of Jerusalem broken down and the gates burned with fire, the strength of his legs gave out. He wept, mourned many days, fasted, and prayed—knocked down by the news, God’s work still before him. Nehemiah 1 presses a question every overwhelmed heart knows: what do you do when the need is undeniable and your strength is gone?
Why do we fast, pray or give? Are we seeking the praise of people around us or are we keeping our focus on God?