Confronting Injustice

1. Nehemiah was willing to confront sin within the community of God instead of ignoring it or excusing it. Why is it often easier to point out problems “out there” in the world than to deal with selfishness, injustice, or lack of care within our own lives and relationships?

2. The wealthy leaders in this passage used a difficult situation for their own advantage instead of caring for people in need. When you look at your own life, what tends to compete with generosity? What would it look like for you to move beyond simply avoiding wrongdoing and actively pursuing generosity toward others?

3. Nehemiah responded with righteous anger, but he was also thoughtful and guided by God. How do you typically respond when you see sin, injustice, or wrongdoing?

4. Nehemiah says he refused to burden the people “because of the fear of God,” and the sermon reminded us that Jesus used His power not to take from people, but to give Himself for them. How would a deeper fear of God and a greater awareness of the grace of Jesus change the way you use your time, resources, influence, or position to serve others this week?