Homecoming Kids – Kids Under Construction (Live) ft. Vestal Goodman

Nehemiah has one of those stories that bring out the metaphor of all different kinds of builders. I believe that I have heard most sermons setting me up to believe that we are all put into this world to be a builder and that I myself am the building. Now as someone wanting to be a disciple, a place where God lives through the Spirit, I have an eye on things a little differently. My faith, work, prayers, and even my watchfulness make me into a mature follower of Jesus. My resulting character reveals the glory of God within me.

If my character is really a building, there might not be no instant change or conversion. My foundation which is built where no one can see it comes before any building can start to take shape. Its excellence in quality results in a sound base. For me that foundation is found in Jesus.

My character is not made up through working hard at being morally right – that is me trying to put good deeds together – this without any Divine principles. This one design that I have been fashioned by is one that has been God’s blueprint for my life. It comes in the working life of Christ – it is the will of God. Spiritual laws play a part for sure as they provide and structure a righteous life. Those laws are clear – God is the centre and object of my affections and Jesus is the only way to the Father.

Christian character is defined by a righteous will, a purpose consecrated to God and acting in well-doing for all. My growth in character comes by doing, thinking and feeling for both God and others. I study these things in other heroic saints just like Nehemiah.

Those who carried burdens were loaded in such a way that each labored on the work with one hand and held his weapon with the other.  And each of the builders had his sword strapped at his side while he built. – Nehemiah 4:17-18  ESV