FOUNDATIONAL TRUTH
PRAYER In a basic sense, prayer is simply talking to God. It is one of the primary ways for Christians to fellowship with God and communicate their emotions and desires. Although there is no formula to praying, the prayer Nehemiah prays in chapter 1 can give us a great outline. In his prayer, Nehemiah starts by praising the Lord, “O L ord God of heaven, the great and awesome God” (1:5). He then transitions into a time of confession , “I now pray before you day and night for the people of Israel your servants, confessing the sins of the people of Israel, which we have sinned against you” (1:6). He then is en- couraged by remembering the promises of God, “Remember the word that you commanded your servant Moses, . . . ‘I will gather them and bring them to the place that I have chosen, to make my name dwell there’” (1:8–9). Lastly, he makes his requests , “Give success to your servant today, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man” (1:11). In Philippians 4:6–7 Paul writes, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all under- standing, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Prayer is not one-sided. Out of our times of prayer can come peace, guidance, wisdom, hope, healing, and so much more. What a privilege it is that we get to come before our holy and awesome God in prayer, knowing that He hears us and answers us in His perfect way! 53
5. Take time to reflect on this prayer. What principles stand out to you in Nehemiah’s prayer that you want to apply in your own prayer life?
DAY 4
Nehemiah Sent to Judah (Nehemiah 2:1–8)
1. Read verses 1–4. Summarize what is happening in this scene.
53 “What is prayer?” Got Questions: Your Questions, Biblical Answers. March 2025. https://www.gotquestions.org/ what-is-prayer.html
186 | Lesson 18
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