Working on God’s Team

“So we rebuilt the wall till all of it reached half its height, for the people worked with all their heart.” Nehemiah 4:6

We are so excited for the start of summer camp at Streams this week. While enjoying activities like golf, music, and soccer, students will talk about important character attributes and hear stories of people in the Bible who used those attributes for God’s glory. Over the next 6 weeks our weekly devotionals will follow the summer camp themes, so as you read the devotional, pause and think of the students who are learning the same thing.

An important attribute in any activity is teamwork. Whether in a sport, the workplace, or even in a church, the ability to work well with others is vital. The book of Nehemiah gives one important example of teamwork.

Nehemiah was living away from home in Persia when he heard that Jerusalem was being rebuilt (Neh. 1) He immediately joined the effort with a vision to rebuild the wall surrounding the city. With God’s blessing he returned to Jerusalem and sought the support of the leaders. The leaders gave him their support and the project began (Neh. 2). The entirety of Nehemiah 3 describes the individuals and groups who worked on the wall. Name after name is listed of people from all backgrounds and abilities. The passage describes some people who were happy to help, while others were called out for their laziness (Neh. 3:5). The author also points out people rebuilding the portion nearest to their homes. Each person listed played an important role in rebuilding the wall. They may not have had the perfect resume for the job but they gave their time to help.

Although slightly mundane to read, this chapter is a lesson about teamwork in our faith walk. We each have unique abilities but one of the most important things we can give to the Lord is our availability. God wants to use us to share his love with others and he delights when his people are willing to work together. Sometimes that may involve learning to lead, other times it will be learning to follow. But no matter the role you play, you can be assured that God is on your team and working in and through you to bring his kingdom.

Finally, just as Nehemiah had people repair the wall nearest them, God intentionally places us in the settings he wants us to do ministry. This can include your workplace, neighborhood, church and even your home. God has placed you right where you are for a reason and is calling you to join him in sharing his love with the people around you.

As you go throughout this week, consider where God has intentionally placed you. How can you be a team player in your setting? In what ways can you work with God and others to share his love with the people around you?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, We thank you for Nehemiah and the example his story gives of Godly leadership and teamwork. Help us each to be team players and willing to give our time and abilities to you. Thank you for intentionally placing us in the settings that we are in and may we joyfully use our abilities there to bring you glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Blessings in your week,

Makalah Scholten
Spiritual Care Coordinator

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