Nehemiah : WK 1 - GROUP GUIDE

INTRODUCTION
The following is a guide to help facilitate discussion between you and the person you’re studying with, or with your Connect Group. Feel free to add, subtract, or change questions to fit the conversation, and pray for the Spirit to lead in all things.

OPENING QUESTION(S)
If you could have a sit down with an historical figure, aside from Jesus Himself (too easy), who would it be and why?  Could be a Bible character, a family member, or anyone from history.

HEAD

1. Read Ezra 1:1-4, 4:24-5:2, Haggai 1:1-6, Ezra 4:14, Nehemiah 1:1-2, 11,  together and share any wisdom, insights, or thoughts that come to you from the reading? What stands out?
2. As we begin this series, were there any items shared this week that you were surprised to learn? Any assumptions or preconceived ideas about Nehemiah’s story?
3. In Ezra, we see God using someone outside the children of Israel to help accomplish His plans. Can you think of others in Scripture who were “outsiders” that God used/called?
4. Why do you think the people were delaying the rebuild of the temple that to them, wasn’t just a building, it was a part of their identity?
5. It seems like the Israelites, as described in Haggai, couldn’t get no satisfaction.  Can you think of any teaching from Scripture that could have helped them put their energies into that which matters most instead of chasing after temporal things?

HEART

1. If we can embrace God’s ability to use anyone, like King Cyrus of Persia, how might that open us up to how we see those we consider “the others” in our culture?
2. What excuses do we use today that keep us from partnering with God to help accomplish His plans for us and our neighbors?
3. “For such a time as this” is phrase used often in the faith world to talk about how God is calling us to serve. Is there something you’ve been sensing God calling you too, “for such a time”? If so, have you said yes to partnering with Him or are you giving excuses as to why now isn’t the best time?
4. Why do you think we have such a hard time answering God’s call(s) in our lives?
5. Who are some of your “heroes” in Scripture, and in what ways were they far from perfect?

HANDS
God is almost always stirring our heart toward some kind of call in our lives. Maybe it’s to serve in our community, become a leader in our church, address a conflict with a friend or colleague, or even carve out some time to spend with Him. There’s all sorts of ways He asks us to partner with Him in the work of the kingdom. Take some time this week to pray and ask God to reveal what it is He’s asking of you “for such a time.” Then ask for the courage to say yes, and give Him time to work on heart.

LIVING WORDS FOR YOUR WEEK
“This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.””
Joshua 1:9 NLT

“And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.”
Colossians 3:17 NLT