Nehemiah 4:6 - Homiletics

A mind to work.

"The people had a mind to work." In our age the calls and opportunities for Christian work are numerous and urgent. The prevalence of "a mind to work" is therefore of great importance; its existence throughout any Christian community is matter for thankfulness, when at least it springs from Christian principle, and is directed wisely to valuable ends.

I. WHENCE A TRULY CHRISTIAN " MIND TO WORK " SPRINGS .

1. Sense of necessity. Perception of evils needing to be removed; of good requiring to be done.

2. Sense of duty.

3. Gratitude and love to God and the Redeemer.

4. Benevolence.

5. Hope. Of accomplishing good; of obtaining good.

6. All these may be excited and guided by good leaders. Such as Nehemiah.

II. How IT WILL SHOW ITSELF . In actual work.

1. Prompt.

2. Hearty.

3. Happy.

4. Abundant.

5. Steady and persevering.

Notwithstanding scoffers, difficulties, etc.

III. WHAT IT WILL SECURE .

1. Freedom from fruitless speculation and unhealthy controversy.

2. Growth in true Christian life.

3. Success in doing good.