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The Need for People with Godly Vision
In America today, we face a crisis of faith marked by a diminished view of God and His people. Many churches have compromised Biblical truth in attempts to make God more palatable, resulting in a distorted understanding that bears little resemblance to Scripture. This weakening of faith comes at a time when our nation faces unprecedented challenges and division.
The Pattern of Nehemiah: A Model for Vision
Nehemiah provides a powerful model for how God develops people of vision. When he learned about Jerusalem's devastation, with its walls torn down and gates destroyed by fire, his response demonstrates three key characteristics of visionary leadership:
1. People of Vision Encounter Problems
Nehemiah lived a comfortable life as the king's cupbearer - a position of significant trust and influence. However, when news arrived about Jerusalem's condition, his peace was shattered. Rather than remaining in his comfort zone, he allowed the problems to drive him to his knees in prayer. God often uses difficult circumstances to develop vision in His people.
2. People of Vision Exercise Prayer
Nehemiah's prayer life exemplified several crucial elements:
- Praise - He began by exalting God's superiority, strength, sovereignty, sacredness, and sincerity
- Persistence - He prayed day and night until answers came
- Contrition - He confessed not only personal sins but those of his people and forefathers
- Promise-based - He reminded God of His covenant promises
- Corporate - He recognized he wasn't praying alone but was part of a larger prayer effort
- Specific - He made clear requests based on real needs
3. People of Vision Embrace Divine Intervention
Nehemiah recognized that his position, prosperity, and influence were not accidents but divine appointments. He understood that God had placed him strategically for His purposes. This awareness enabled him to move forward in faith when opportunities arose.
The Call for Modern-Day Nehemiahs
Today's church desperately needs people of vision who will:
- Recognize the serious condition of our spiritual walls and gates
- Respond with genuine concern and persistent prayer
- Take action based on God's leading
- Rally others to join in the work of restoration
Like Nehemiah's day, the rebuilding of spiritual foundations requires people who are:
- In touch with God
- Moved by God
- On the move for God
The key question is not whether we see the need, but whether we will answer God's call to be people of vision in our generation. When God asks "Who will go?", the response that honors Him is "Here I am, send me" (Isaiah 6:8).