On the day that our new building is dedicated, we look back at the dedication of Solomon's temple and the kinds of things that Solomon encouraged the people of Israel to do on that day. As we desire to see God move amongst us today, what are some of God's expectations of us?

Continued from last week, we look at Ephesians 4 and James 4 to see some other ways that we can stay connected to God, including: seeking God's face, confession of sin, grieving over sinful lifestyle, cleansing your heart and humbling yourself.

When things get comfortable, we tend to forget God. What are some ways we can remember him? One such memorial is the Lord's Supper, a reminder of God's work on the cross for us. Another is baptism, a reminder of God's power to change our lives. These are just two ways we stay connected with the living God.

In Joshua 1, we learn that God keeps His promise to His people and they finally get to enter what is modern-day Israel. As they move into that "Promised Land", God tells them that He will not leave them or neglect them and that they should not be troubled. This prosperity comes through the study and application of His Word - a response that says "whatever You say, we will do". How will you be strong and courageous, hear God's voice and put it into action?

Looking at the story of Joshua and the Israelites as they cross the Jordan River on dry ground, we learn that God is always leading his people, is in the midst of them and is coming behind them. And God is at work and doing miracles today just as He did back then. How is He at work in your life and helping You through the challenges you face?

The people who lived contemporary with Nehemiah had a choice - whether they would serve the Lord or other gods. Various preachers came forward after the Jerusalem wall was finished to call the people back to the true God. What are the false gods in your life that try to pull your attention and worship from the Lord?

In Nehemiah 5, Nehemiah sees the people of Israel taking advantage of each other by charging interest to one another. Nehemiah's confrontation with the people involved inspires a message on dealing with difficulties as they arise within the church. What is the process one must go through in order to resolve issues and how does one achieve the goal of making things right?

The rubble must be removed before the Jerusalem wall can be rebuilt, as we see in Nehemiah 2:13-14. Before renovation can be done, the work of cleaning must be finished. What do you need to clean out of your life so that God can renovate your heart?

Looking forward into Nehemiah's life, we see him recognizing the influence that God has given him, preparing for the challenges ahead, assessing the damage and responding to the challenge placed before him. Do we recognize challenges God is asking us to tackle and respond to his call?

As our church gets ready to enter our first building, we turn to the book of Nehemiah for inspiration. We see the people returning to the war-town Jerusalem to prepare to rebuild the walls. In order to do this, they had to have broken hearts, a desire for change and and attitude of constant prayer.