The third Saturday of every month the men of LifePath gather at 8:00 a.m. for breakfast, study of the Word, and ministry. Our journey has been about rediscovering biblical masculinity. This has been a powerful time of growth in Christ and is bringing life and health to our families. For more information about our men's ministry call our church office at (952) 942-5447 or email Eric Dammeyer at men@lifepathcommunity.org.
FORTRESS OF OUR GOD
Part One: A Childless Father
Nehemiah 1:1 through 2:5
The people of Judah were captive, their nation destroyed. Even after they were given permission to go home, only a few made the four-month journey. Most would rather stay in their captivity. And those who did go back were vulnerable to attack, because their city still lay in ruins. The Book of Nehemiah is one of many accounts of how God makes His redemptive entry into impossible situations.
How often in our lives we find ourselves in a terrible place, a seemingly impossible situation. All the power appears to be in the hands of what has captured us. And yet, we know . . . oh yes we know . . . that we are willing to stay there. How do I get out of this? What else can I do? Be strong, have courage: God has not given up on you.
FORTRESS OF OUR GOD
Part Two: A Community of Fathers
Nehemiah 2:6-18, Ch. 3, and 4:1-14
Who rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem? Not bricklayers. Not stone workers or engineers. The miles of wall were built in 52 days by merchants, priests, men of trades, women and goldsmiths. Not wall builders. Who they were was a community. Brought together from a scattered people, they became one to honor God and to protect their way of life. And the decision to unite is immediately followed by opposition. Physical threats. Discouragement. Exhaustion. And enemies. But against all odds and opposed by numerous enemies, the men (and women) who built the wall chose to depend on God for their defense. They stood guard and worked. In Isaiah 58:6-8 the Lord tells His people that if they will do His good works, He has their backs.
