Rally the team. Get to work.

Nehemiah was called by God to go back to Jerusalem and rebuild the city.  This was God’s Plan and Nehemiah had a key role in this plan.  When he asked the occupying king for permission to return, God provided the way.  Then, Nehemiah took the time to internalize God’s Plan and make it his own plan.

The city officials did not know I had been out there or what I was doing, for I had not yet said anything to anyone about my plans. I had not yet spoken to the Jewish leaders--the priests, the nobles, the officials, or anyone else in the administration. (Nehemiah 2:16 NLT)

Once Nehemiah worked through his own process, it was time to share the plan with others.  Moses went through this process before talking with the elders of Israel in Egypt.  Joshua did the same.  Jesus is even seen working through the same kind of process with Our Father in heaven.  There is a point, though, where they finally “own” the vision that the LORD gave to them.  Then, their next step is always the same.  It’s time to rally the team.

But now I said to them, "You know very well what trouble we are in. Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been destroyed by fire. Let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem and end this disgrace!" (Nehemiah 2:17 NLT)

It’s interesting to see how God works out this part of the process.  Once God’s Plan is clearly articulated, people decide whether God is calling them to be a part of the team or not.  Sometimes people argue with the messenger.  Sometimes they pick a fight.  Most of the time, though, they simply decide and stay or they walk away.  The leaders, like Nehemiah, don’t need to work hard to convince the people God calls.  They simply need to share God’s Plan.  God takes care of the rest.  Then, they all get to work.

Then I told them about how the gracious hand of God had been on me, and about my conversation with the king. They replied at once, "Yes, let's rebuild the wall!" So they began the good work. (Nehemiah 2:18 NLT)

How about you?  Have you ever heard someone share a part of God’s Plan? Did you join the team?  Have you ever shared a part of God’s Plan with others?  Did you see God rally the team?  In either case, did you get to work?