Sermon Recap
Pastor Dan Kromidas explored the story of Nehemiah. He began with how Nehemiah’s tears for Jerusalem ignited a holy ambition, compelling him to lead a restoration that ultimately pointed to God’s redemptive work. Through Nehemiah's example, we discover that holy ambition starts when God’s concerns become personal, mature through resistance, and reaches into eternity. He encouraged every listener to ask, “What could God do in my life?” and to bring that question into prayerful action, expecting God to do something greater with their life that reaches into eternity
Ice Breaker Option
What is an ambition or goal that you've recently pursued, and what motivated you to start?
HEAD Read Nehemiah chapter 1
• What is the context of this account? Where do we find God’s people at this point in history and why?
• Describe Nehemiah’s reaction to the news from Jerusalem. What actions did this compel him to?
• Read chapter 2:1-2 and 8. How did God move in this situation?
• How does Nehemiah’s story point to our need for a savior?
HEART
• Why do we so often miss the invitation to join God's plan?
• Reflect on your current goals or ambition. How has prayer shaped your pursuits?
• In what ways do you see external and internal resistance affecting your willingness to pursue God-given goals?
HANDS
• What are some specific promises from Scripture that can motivate you to ambition aimed higher? Commit to memorizing one of these scriptures this week.
• What's distracting you from what God's called you to focus on in this season of life? What steps will you take to deal with this distraction?
• As you respond to God’s invitation to holy ambition, what do you need to hold before Him in prayer?
PRAYER
• Pray for the courage to pursue holy ambitions in your life.
• Ask God to reveal any resistance you may be facing and seek His guidance.
• Pray for God’s wisdom as you encourage others in their pursuits of holy ambition.
Going Deeper:
The Old Testament is more than ancient history - it's a rich unfolding story that points us to Jesus. Through the lives of ordinary people, we see God's extraordinary faithfulness and grace at work. Use the provided reading plan to discover how approachable and relevant the Old Testament truly is, revealing the heart of God in every chapter.
• How will you make room in your schedule for this daily reading and reflection?
• What will help you respond to what you learn? Consider journaling your responses to the reflection questions.
• Who will you invite to walk with you on this journey?