Building for Young People: Lessons from Nehemiah

A few months ago, I came across something powerful in the book of Nehemiah that has formed my conviction about praying for young people globally. Here's what I learned:

1. Empathy is the First Step Toward Building for Others

Historians say Nehemiah likely never saw Jerusalem before, having been born in captivity. Yet, his heart was drawn to the plight of his people. His emotional connection to the people who had returned to Jerusalem made him attentive when he received reports about their condition.

Nehemiah 1:2-3 (KJV): "Hanani, one of my brethren, came, he and certain men of Judah; and I asked them concerning the Jews that had escaped, which were left of the captivity, and concerning Jerusalem. And they said unto me, 'The remnant that are left of the captivity there in the province are in great affliction and reproach: the wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and the gates are burned with fire.'"

In practice, I cultivate deep empathy by observing and meditating on the experiences, and the spiritual and practical needs of young people today. This process opens my heart to their challenges and strengthens my desire to see their lives get better through greater spiritual illumination.

2. Pray Before You Build

Once you begin to feel the weight of their struggles, your next response should be prayer—not a human-driven effort to create solutions. If you're building to advance God's purpose, prayer is essential for lasting impact.

Nehemiah 1:4 (KJV): "And it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven."

Through prayer, you align yourself with God's vision for this generation. As you pray, your burden becomes stronger, your understanding of their challenges sharpens, and your eyes are opened to potential solutions.

More importantly, God reveals His plan, and as you stay connected to Him, He entrusts you with the resources—both material and immaterial—needed to fulfil your part in His agenda.

As you walk this path, remember:

• Guard your heart against greed. Stay focused on God's kingdom, not personal gain.
• Stay rooted in prayer. God’s mind is revealed progressively—"line upon line, precept upon precept"—through quality time in prayer and His Word.
• Be fruitful where you are now. Continue to be diligent in your current work and relationships, trusting that God will reveal more as you remain faithful.
• Walk in love and wisdom. Treat everyone with kindness and discernment as you carry out your calling.

Selah

PS: If you feel called to build for young people in any sector, consider joining us for daily intercessory prayers.

It's called Piercing the Darkness, and we meet to pray on X Space (@tschoolhq) at 6:00-6:15 AM and 9:00-10:00 PM daily.