The book of Nehemiah records the rebuilding of Jerusalem. They faced numerous obstacles from getting permission to facing opposition to fighting discouragement. One phrase sticks out for me in the passage, “but we prayed.” If I recall there are at least 9 references to prayer in this rather short book. At least in the heart of Nehemiah, prayer made the difference between a city lying in ruins and a city restored to glory and strength.

Several years ago (more than 20) I was asked to give oversight to a region of churches for my particular tribe (denomination) of churches. I was a elected to that position at a conference, by my peers and delegates from the churches I would serve.

At the close of that conference three men came to me and promised to pray for me every day. Two had preceded me in that ministry and the third was a retired farmer. I served in that role for 14 years. During that time, each of those men died (that is not a warning for anyone who wants to pray for me). I remember the incredible sense of loss I felt.

I was with one of these men a week before his death. I offered to pray for him – which I did. Then he invited me to come and kneel by his chair. (Invite suggests I had a choice – there was something compelling about this invitation that could not be resisted.) I knelt by his chair and he put his hand on my head and prayed for me – that is my last memory of him. There was an incredible sense of blessing and empowerment. The next week I shared in his funeral.

The memories of those men – the blessing of their prayers and the strength I received through their prayers has prompted me through the years to recruit prayer partners. I am thankful for a team of men and women who pray for me regularly.

I do not expect to face the kinds of challenges Nehemiah faced but I still need prayer for the challenges that come my way and I am thankful for those who pray.