Kidside Children's Lesson

Nehemiah Hears, Prays, and Goes

Nehemiah was the cupbearer for King Artaxerxes. He lived at the same time as a great priest named Ezra, and their work helped restore the temple (Ezra) and the walls (Nehemiah) of Jerusalem. Nehemiah lives about a century after Daniel. His life could have overlapped Esther’s.

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Read Nehemiah 1:1-4 

• What news or current events have made you sad lately? How do you relate to the deep emotions that Nehemiah felt when he heard the report on the conditions of the once great city of Jerusalem? 
• How have you “reacted” to bad news lately? As we continue to read, consider what Nehemiah might teach us about how to “respond” to difficult, frustrating, or frightening circumstances. R

Read Nehemiah 1:5-11

• Reread and outline the various aspects of Nehemiah’s prayer? Consider: 
  • How does he address God?
  • Talk about his confession? 
  • About what does Nehemiah remind God? (Read Solomon’s request 2 Chronicles 6:24-25 and God’s promise 2 Chronicles 7:12-16) 
  • What specific requests does Nehemiah make to God as he concludes? 

Read Nehemiah 2:1-5

• Do you ever have a hard time asking for help? Why is it so hard to ask others to help you? Nehemiah knows the source of all help. Who does Nehemiah know is with him on this new mission? 

Challenge: Using Nehemiah’s prayer as a model, work together to create a family/small group prayer that reflects the concerns with which we live today. If you wish, share with Mr. Wes by email or social media