This message is tied to a church-wide effort hoping we encourage each other to have gospel conversations using a tool called the three circles.

However, when we reflect on Nehemiah’s experiences throughout chapter 1-6, I see ten God moments in his life. They each represent God moments we all could expect when living sent by God with the gospel. I’ve identified them as a countdown from 10 to 1. They move us through Nehemiah 1-6

Jesus tells His disciples the night before He’s crucified, “If they persecuted me, they will persecute you.” (John 15:20) Beyond being crucified, which is persecution on steroids, Jesus was also persecuted with character attacks.

We can expect opposition when living sent. We will talk about where oppostion originates.

Our call may include scrutiny and sacrifice, but how do we move on inspite of the chanllenge.

A CALL TO PRAYER AND REPENTANCE

At times, followers ignore that we are in a spiritual battle. It makes us more susceptible to succumb. Other times we give too much strength to Satan, his demons and their tactics.

We all can feel overwhelmed by opposition, personal limitation, even unrealistic expectations. So we must Pray, Work Differently, Focus and Brag on God instead of what's draining us.

Ridicule comes with being sent by God. Whether it's the prophets of the Old Testament or Jesus of the New Testament, all living sent by God face it.

We need to allow the Holy Spirit to enter our life.