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Day 2 – King’s Favor Nehemiah 2:1-8 Everyone likes it when the people we associate with look kindly on us and show us favor in the things we do for them and the things we accomplish in our lives. It is especially pleasant when favor comes from unexpected places. Nehemiah had just spent time with God in fasting and prayer regarding the condition of Jerusalem, its gates and walls, and sought God’s favor in getting them rebuilt again. His concern was so great the king noticed it when he came before him. Nehemiah was justly fearful when the king noticed his sad demeanor because the king could have had him killed. Instead, when the king found out why Nehemiah was sad and concerned, he asked what he could do for Nehemiah, and he granted it, allowing Nehemiah to return to Jerusalem for an appointed time to build up the gates and walls again of Jerusalem. As Christians, we seek God’s favor in our lives. We want Him to look kindly on us for the things we want to do. We too fast and pray when things concern us, hoping we will be able to make a difference in some small way. Therefore it is with great joy when God our King listens to the cries of our hearts, and makes a way for us to accomplish our goals. When Nehemiah realized Artaxerxes was granting his request and asked him what he needed, he did not hesitate to request letters of favor that would carry him to Jerusalem and provide the building supplies he needed. God wants to help us in our endeavors. When we have something on our hearts that consumes us to the point where we want to do everything we can to accomplish our goals, God will pave the way for the work to be done. Often our goals are God’s goals, and He gives us the vision to do something to help those in need, and gives us the tools to do the job. Artaxerxes gave Nehemiah letters to give to those who could help him get the gates and walls built in Jerusalem. God will send people our way who will help us accomplish the work God set on our hearts to do as well. We might not be building gates and walls, but we might be feeding orphans, helping the homeless, taking care of refugees, helping those who cannot help themselves. We too will experience the King’s favor in our lives and will be able to do all our desire. Let’s pray: Father, the cry of my heart is to do Your will. Help me come to You for Your favor and blessing in the work You have for me to do. In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen. Copyright © 28 January 2016 by Valerie Jean Routhieaux Image courtesy of Pixabay