Work Record

Nehemiah 3

Nehemiah recorded in his journal all the individuals and families involved in rebuilding the walls and he notes the sections that they worked on. I am sure that he not only wanted a record of their names for posterity, but this was a living list of the people Nehemiah prayed for. A critical part of our work together for this church must include knowing each other, understanding the work we each do and supporting each other through prayer, Bible sharing, fellowship and advice.

It is not just a boring list of people we have here in Nehemiah chapter 3. This list confirms to us that God doesn’t forget his people. The fact that all these names from more than 2,300 years ago are recorded in the Bible and we are reading them out – ordinary names of ordinary people like us –confirms God’s deep interest in and love for those who work with him.

What will your name stand for in God’s kingdom? What you are doing with your life at the moment is writing the story of who you are. Will God remember with pride that you loved 50Cent, that you supported the Warriors, that you never missed an episode of Shortland St or Coronation St, or that your favourite car was a Nissan Skyline? That your house was the tidiest in the street? That you grew the best roses? That your Pad Thai was the tastiest?

If God was recording the names of people doing his work in this city, Auckland, right now, would your name appear? Could he write even a short sentence about the part you are playing in doing his work?

In the books where God is recording your life’s work, which columns of your life book are getting filled up:

- Prayer and the fights you put in for yourself and others as you plead at the throne of grace?

- Bible study, as you read, meditate, discuss, listen, take in by faith and apply with the Spirit’s help?

- Connecting up with other Christians in fellowship?

- Engagement with the world as you live as a light in a dark place and as a sweet aroma in the presence of death?

- Leading those who look up to you – acting as an excellent mentor, role-model and Christian example?

- Serving those who need a hand up or some material help?

- Celebrating God through joyful worship and offering him praise and thanksgiving?

Is there anything recorded under these columns in your life book? If not, get your heart centred in Christ and get working.