February 12, 2023
Passage:  Nehemiah Introduction
Speaker:  Pastor Josh Holland
Main Point:  We rest in a God who redeems and restores sinful people.

I. The enemy always opposes God’s good work.
            A. Because of sin, we were all exiled from the presence of God.
            B. God promises to save and bless, but I must believe.
            C. The enemy’s plan is to get us to abandon God’s plan.

II. Israel wanted God’s blessing, but not his plan.
            A. God wants my whole heart.
            B. Israel’s blessing became dependent upon their king.  (1 Kings 9:1-9)
            C. Israel’s kings, starting with Solomon, sinned against God.  (1 Kings 11:1-5)

III. God’s plan provides a King for humble hearts.
            A. My old kingdom of self must be swept away.
            B. I must guard my heart from distractions of idolatry.
            C. Recognize God’s sovereign hand over every area in life.