Can one person change things?

America, at one time was considered the greatest country in the world. There was prosperity, jobs, low crime. People knew their neighbors and didn't have to really worry about locking their doors at night. Now, things have changed.

Many people have lost hope due to unemployment. Futures are uncertain. Even activities that would cause a brief diversion, like movies, are being interrupted by gunmen. We look to our leaders for help and they don't provide the vision that we need.

What do we do in uncertain times? And more importantly, what can one person do to change things?

In Nehemiah 1, Nehemiah is facing a similar challenge. As soon as he realized the dire state of his country he did what we should be doing today:

"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. And I said, '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, 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, confessing the sins of the people of Israel, which we have sinned against you. Even I and my father's house have sinned." Nehemiah 1:4-6

We have got to realize that we, as a country, have tried it our way - and we are failing miserably. We continue to try to push God out of the picture, and we continue to sink. Are you willing to intercede for this country?

I believe that one person can make a difference in the life of others if they truly seek the face of God with humility and sincerity. Are you willing to invest your time and effort to pray for the redemption of a nation?

Here's today's challenge. Ask yourself if one person can change things, then read the book of Nehemiah. It's short... 13 chapters... you can do that in about 20 minutes. Head over to Bible Gateway and read it in either the English Standard Version or the New Living Translation... both are easy to read. Then meditate on what God is saying to you about how to affect change in your community.