Courageous Obedience Study

Hi Everyone!

In this study we will read the article and related scriptures and write an email to our partners answering the Reflect and Respond Questions at the end.

When faith overcomes fear, bold confidence empowers us to fulfill God’s calling.

Intimidation is a mean-spirited and, sadly, all-too-effective tool for silencing believers. It’s no stranger to the college classroom, the workplace, or the nightly news. Most of us, though, live rather comfortably and have never experienced outright persecution for our faith. So when we consider the qualities that characterize a godly life, courage probably isn’t our first thought.

Read the article here

REFLECT

• When Nehemiah sensed God calling him to help rebuild Jerusalem’s walls, what excuses might he have offered?

• Why do you think God allowed four months to pass before providing an opportunity for Nehemiah to speak to the king? When God delays, we may be tempted to think He’s inactive on our behalf, but what do Isaiah 64:4 and Ecclesiastes 3:1 indicate about timing?

• When the appointed time finally came, Nehemiah seemed unprepared. His first reaction was fear, which is understandable, as sadness in the king’s presence was strictly prohibited (Neh. 2:1-2). What was his second response (v. 4)?

• What similarities do you see between the way Nehemiah spoke to the king of Persia (vv. 3-8) and Paul’s recommendation to believers (Col. 4:2-6)?

• What kinds of opposition did Nehemiah face when rebuilding the wall? How does 1 Peter 4:12-14 tell us to respond when we’re mocked because of our faith? What promise is found in Luke 6:22-23? In times of conflict, how can we help and encourage each other (Heb. 10:32-39)?

RESPOND

• What events or circumstances—perhaps witnessing, standing alone on an issue, or stepping outside your comfort zone some other way—cause you to be afraid? What have you learned from Nehemiah that will help you move from fear to faith? If the Lord is calling you to a task that makes you feel inadequate or fearful, what encouragement does 2 Corinthians 3:4-6 offer?

• Have you ever pressed forward to obey God in spite of fear? What happened?

• Do you know someone like Nehemiah who has bold confidence in God? If so, how can this person’s courage inspire you to walk by faith?

Anyone in Bible Study is welcomed to join. 2 weeks to send! Let me know if you have any questions. :)