“When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven.” — Nehemiah 1:4
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In Nehemiah 1, the children of Israel once again found themselves in a perilous situation. Most of the nation remained in exile, while a small remnant returned to Jerusalem to rebuild their home. Upon their return, Nehemiah’s brother, Hanani, shared the harsh realities of an ancient city now in rubble. Nehemiah, heartbroken at the news, began to pray and lament for days before deciding he must do something. So he prayerfully considered how to make his request to the king. Nehemiah’s decision to leave was significant because of the position he held: He was the cupbearer!
A cupbearer was historically an officer of high rank in royal courts, whose duty was to pour and serve the drinks at the royal table. As the cupbearer, he was trusted to guard against poison in the king’s cup, including swallowing some of the drink before serving it. His confidential position with the king often gave him a position of great influence.
There are four distinguishing characteristics Nehemiah had, and that every successful athlete, coach or leader must possess: He was trustworthy, valued, set apart and influential. He understood the position he was in and the weight it carried. Everything God did with Nehemiah was strategic and intentional, and so is everything He is doing with you.
Do you understand the weight of the position you are in and the influence you carry? When God has work for you to accomplish, He will give you favor and position to complete it.
— Fleceia Comeaux, Houston Dash chaplain
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