Where To Turn In Times of Crisis

Before the days of GPS, while traveling, I would often have to stop and ask for directions. Inevitably, while giving the directions, the person would tell me how far to travel, where to turn and which way to turn. In times of crisis it is important that we know where to turn. During a time of national crisis, Nehemiah turned to God.

Nehemiah turned to God in desperation, “As soon as I heard these words I sat down and wept and mourned for days, and I continued fasting and praying before the God of heaven” (Nehemiah 1:4). When we find ourselves in a crisis, or when our nation is in a crisis, the first place we need to turn is to God in desperation. He’s our only hope!

Nehemiah also turned to God in adoration, “O Lord God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments” (Nehemiah 1:5). As we invest time adoring Him, our focus will shift from the things of this world to the One who holds the world in His hands. As we adore Him we will be reminded that our hope is in the Lord.

Nehemiah also turned to God in intercession, “Let your ear be attentive and your eyes open, to hear the prayer of your servant that I now pray before you day and night for the people of Israel your servants” (Nehemiah 1:6). For three to fourth months, day and night, Nehemiah interceded on behalf of his people. He asked God to be attentive and hear his prayers. It was during Nehemiah’s time of intercession that God began to reveal His plan for the people of Judah as well as how Nehemiah would be a part of that plan.

Nehemiah also turned to God in confession, “confessing the sins of the people of Israel, which we have sinned against you. Even I and my father’s house have sinned. We have acted very corruptly against you and have not kept the commandments, the statutes, and the rules that you commanded your servant Moses” (Nehemiah 1:6-7). Nehemiah confessed the sins of his people, his own sins and the sins of his family. He confessed their corrupt actions and their disobedience to God’s word.

When we are in a crisis—whether individually or as a nation—we should always follow Nehemiah’s example by turning to God in desperation, in adoration, in intercession, in confession. After all, God and God alone is our only hope!