Read

Nehemiah 11:1-2, “Now the leaders of the people settled in Jerusalem. The rest of the people cast lots to bring one out of every ten of them to live in Jerusalem, the holy city, while the remaining nine were to stay in their own towns. The people commended all who volunteered to live in Jerusalem.”

Think

In the movies, it often seems so bold and adventurous to see pioneers set out into the unknown. But whether journeying west or setting out to sea, even the greatest heroes and heroines would be nothing without their supporting crew — those beloved characters, the glue that make classic films, well, classics!

As Jerusalem was being rebuilt, the “crew” — the nameless lot that were crucial to getting the work done — carried on as a new challenge emerged. The city needed repopulation. Therefore, in addition to those who willingly volunteered to move, lots were cast to compel people to move to Jerusalem with a 1 in 10 chance of being selected. And, as we see in the passage above, a theme emerged: the people responded obediently, regardless of their role. The leaders led. The volunteers let go of comfort and familiarity to rebuild the city. And even those selected by “chance” submitted to God’s authority and His chosen chain of command.

If others watched a movie about your life, would they recognize that same level of obedience and willingness to serve? Take a moment to examine your heart. Is there anything you’re holding back from God? Would you ever say, “God I’d do anything for You except…? You may not be called to plant a church, but you may be called into new territory. Don’t miss out on the role of a lifetime. Whatever you can’t give up for God is nothing compared to what you will gain if you do!

Pray

God, I love and trust You. Are you calling me to lead in any situation today? Let me lead by example! Are you calling me to go somewhere in obedience? I readily volunteer! Or are you just asking me to open my hands to You, holding nothing back? Lord it is not easy, but I lay every dream and comfort before You. You are the King of my heart. Amen