Day 1: A Deep Burden

Recap of the Sermon: Bold Request — To Boldly Go
The second week of the To Boldly Go series delves into the themes of burden, bold requests, and bold sacrifices, as exemplified by Nehemiah’s story. Nehemiah’s journey begins with a deep burden for the broken walls of Jerusalem—a reflection of the scattered and vulnerable state of his people. This burden drives him to make a bold request before King Artaxerxes, risking his comfort and position for the sake of God’s calling.
The sermon highlights how burdens from God inspire bold action. For Nehemiah, his boldness led to God’s provision, favor, and success. As a church, we are called to embrace burdens for both our spiritual growth and the needs of our community, leading us to make bold requests and sacrifices for God’s work. The To Boldly Go campaign serves as a tangible application, asking for sacrificial giving and engagement as we move toward the vision of a new space for ministry.
This devotional series will focus on Nehemiah’s example and how it inspires us to act boldly in faith, trusting in God’s provision as we take on the burdens He places on our hearts.

Day 1: A Deep Burden
Scripture:
"When I heard these words, I sat down and wept. I mourned for a number of days, fasting and praying before the God of heaven." — Nehemiah 1:4

Reflection:
Nehemiah’s story begins with an emotional response to devastating news: the walls of Jerusalem were broken, and the gates had been burned. For the Israelites, walls symbolized safety, dignity, and spiritual strength. Their destruction mirrored the scattered, vulnerable state of God’s people. Nehemiah didn’t shrug off this news or move on to the next task. Instead, he wept, fasted, and prayed—allowing the weight of his burden to drive him to seek God’s guidance.
This response teaches us a vital lesson: burdens often serve as a divine call to action. Nehemiah didn’t act impulsively. He took time to grieve, fast, and pray, showing us that the starting point for any God-given mission is intimacy with Him. When you feel deeply troubled about a situation—in your life, your church, or the world—it’s worth asking: is God placing this burden on my heart for a reason?
The pastor reminded us that the church, too, has burdens. Whether it’s a call to reach those who don’t yet know Christ or a vision to expand its resources, these burdens are opportunities to respond in faith and obedience. What burdens has God placed on your heart? They might feel overwhelming, but as Nehemiah’s story reveals, God equips us to carry them when we seek Him.

Application:
Spend time in prayer this week asking God to reveal the burdens He wants you to carry. Write them down and commit to fasting or setting aside extended prayer time to discern how He wants you to respond. Share your burden with someone you trust who can pray with you.

Prayer:
Lord, I open my heart to the burdens You want me to carry. Teach me to respond with compassion and courage. Help me to take these burdens to You in prayer, trusting in Your wisdom and provision. Thank You for calling me to partner with You in Your work. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Questions for Reflection:
1. What current situation or need stirs your heart deeply?
2. How can you invite God into this burden through prayer and action?