(Nehemiah 1:1-11) This Sunday we introduce the book of Nehemiah and challenge our congregation to prioritize God’s purpose over personal comfort in the new year. The passage highlights how Nehemiah was deeply moved by the broken walls of Jerusalem, not out of personal gain but out of a calling to rebuild both the physical and spiritual center of worship. This passage wars against the idol of comfort and urges Christians to align their goals with God’s kingdom purposes through prayer, repentance, and devotion. As Nehemiah turned to God in prayer for guidance and strength, believers are called to approach 2025 with clarity of purpose, seeking first the kingdom of God and committing to worship and service. Jesus Christ is presented as the ultimate example, who gave up His comfort for the sake of God’s redemptive plan.