Bold Moves: the book of Nehemiah
When God places a burden on our hearts, it’s often an invitation to make a bold move. Nehemiah, a man of faith and vision, teaches us how to respond with courage and trust.
Here are four ways Nehemiah’s story challenges us to make bold moves for God in our own lives:
Bold moves start with a divine burden
Nehemiah’s journey began with a deep burden for his people and his homeland.
The Bible says he was heartbroken for Jerusalem: “When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven” (Nehemiah 1:4).
This burden wasn’t just sadness — it was God placing a call on his heart to make a difference.
Are there burdens God has placed on your heart that might be calling you to act with boldness?
Bold moves attract God’s favour
Nehemiah’s burden led him to action, and his courage brought him before the king. In the Persian court, appearing sad before the king was risky — it could have resulted in punishment or even death.
Because Nehemiah acted in faith, he found unexpected favor in the king’s sight.
The king not only granted his request but even offered resources to support the rebuilding of Jerusalem.
“The king granted my requests, for the gracious hand of my God was on me” (Nehemiah 2:8).
God’s favor doesn’t always look like open doors right away, but when we act with faith, He brings unexpected provision and support.
Bold moves require trust in God’s Word
Nehemiah didn’t rush into action. Before making his request to the king, he prayed.
“Then I prayed to the God of heaven, and I answered the king” (Nehemiah 2:4-5).
Nehemiah’s boldness wasn’t in his strength but in his reliance on God.
Esther, similarly, found favor with the king by seeking God first.
“The king said, ‘What is it that you want, Esther?’” (Esther 5:3).
This was a response to her faith, much like Nehemiah experienced.
Boldness in faith isn’t just about what we do; it’s about seeking God’s will and strength to guide us.
Bold moves bear eternal fruit
When Nehemiah stepped up, he didn’t have all the answers; he had faith.
We see this same principle in Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
God’s timing and provision become clear only as we walk forward. Nehemiah trusted God’s provision to rebuild Jerusalem, and he leaned on God every step of the way, knowing his mission would be met with resistance.
His boldness restored not just the walls of Jerusalem but also the identity and hope of its people.
Nehemiah’s faith brought life to a hopeless situation, reminding us that God can use our bold moves to create change that lasts.
Bold moves open doors
God wants to do mighty things through you, but sometimes, we’re too busy to notice.
Busyness isn't the same as fruitfulness.
Nehemiah’s life exemplifies that we need divine guidance to act meaningfully. As we move forward in our faith journey, may we seek to be fruitful, living lives that reflect bold trust in God.
God promises to be with us: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
Watch the full message to learn how a life of bold faith can impact not only your world but the lives of those around you.
