Above:  The Book Heading from The New Revised Standard Version:  Catholic Edition (1993)

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Chapter 2:

https://taylorfamilypoems.wordpress.com/2013/05/18/strong-hands-for-service/

Chapter 4:

https://taylorfamilypoems.wordpress.com/2013/05/18/strong-hands-for-service/

Chapter 6:

https://taylorfamilypoems.wordpress.com/2013/05/18/strong-hands-for-service/

Chapter 8:

https://taylorfamilypoems.wordpress.com/2013/05/18/strong-hands-for-service/

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Above:  Jerusalem, Palestine, Between 1934 and 1939

Image Source = Library of Congress

(http://www.loc.gov/pictures/item/mpc2004003060/PP/)

Reproduction Number = LC-DIG-matpc-04131

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Neh. 2, 18

1.  This a noble patriotic work–to rebuild the walls of the city.  But it was great, so they must arouse themselves and rally, one and all, to the enterprise.  “So they strengthened their hands for good work.”

2.  We have a nobler and Christian work–to save lost souls & fortify the church.  God certainly calls us for this service.  If we do it not it will go undone.

3.  But it is no ordinary task.  It calls for all that is in us.  “The kingdom responds to violence.”  Pity if for lack of a little more zeal one soul is lost.   Are you sure such may not be the case?

4.  Shall we not strengthen our hands for the work?  How?

(a)  They united in the work, were ready to do each his part.

(b)  Were inspired by faith and prayer and each had a mind to work.  Ch. 4, 6 & 6, 9.

(c)  Found the joy of the Lord–ch. 8, 10.  The sense of service in His name gave joy and thereby the were strong.

5.  O that we may be strong in the Spirit to do His work now assigned us!

GEORGE WASHINGTON BARRETT