Team
Up - Build Up
Scripture
Text: Nehemiah
3: 1-12
A
People Who Got Involved:
When
I think of teamwork, I think of the time when I was involved in
a small way in BMC's, Love Lifted, the musical. It seemed
to be a powerful voice glorifying God. When I saw how the various
people came together, from the musicians, to the stagehands, to
the singers, to the caterers, to the people involved in the logistics,
etc., ONE thing is for sure:WHEN
WE TEAM UP, WE BUILD UP. I unashamedly have
to admit that at first, I was wondering whether to be involved,
but when I did, I was more blessed (by the people and God) than
I blessed. It was a humbling and learning experience, I thank God
for that.
Just
like in Nehemiah 3, God uses everyone in His kingdom, from priests
to perfume makers, goldsmiths to rulers, to rebuild the walls of
Jerusalem. Today, God still uses different people to team up and
build His church and expand His kingdom.
In
His community, everyone has a role to play. To be in His team, we
need to take up these ROLES.
We need to:
·
Rebuild our relationship with
God (v1)
The priests worked on the Sheep Gate and dedicated it and set its
doors in place. Like us, it requires work to rebuild our relationship
with God. We need to be a worshipper first, before we can serve
God. Simply put, “Be a worshipper , then a worker.”
·
Operate within our interests or giftings
(v10, 17, 21, 23 - 24, 28 -30)
God
has given us gifts and talents. Our different interests and motivations
are good indicators to direct us where we can start serving. We
do this by taking a small step, starting with the ‘choicest’
part.
·
Lead by exemplary servanthood attitude
(13, 19, 20, 27)
Some
people we know are asked to do more than others, and they do so
unbegrudgingly. Sometimes, we may be given tasks that we are not
equipped for. Our natural tendency is to protest. But we have a
wonderful God who will give us the extra grace to handle the unexpected
load.
·
Expect God to reward us (1 Corinthians
15:58)
God
records the deeds of His people. He remembers those who do good.
Let us be mindful of this.
·
Submit to our leaders and each other (v5)
In
Nehemiah 3:5, the nobles would not put their shoulders to the work
under their supervisors. It is an imagery that describes a 'stiff-necked'
ox that refuses to be yoked. It is pride. We should put that aside
and be humble when doing God's work.
We
cannot all be superstars. We need to come together, work as a team
to accomplish God’s work. Let’s remember it is not the
curse that we miss out but the blessing we miss out in serving God.
Prayer
Response
Lord,
let us team up with You and Your people to build up. We desire to
be part of your restoration plan.Lord, there are many ministries
in church and probably one for me to serve you. Please open my eyes
and heart to lead me to that one ministry where I can be part of
your team to build your church. You have given me gifts to serve.
Use me mightily to extend your kingdom. Amen.
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Devotional based on message by Ps Leslie Lim