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Monday, July 6, 2026 · 33 min

How to Make a Difference

Carl Kuhl · Nehemiah 1

Carl Kuhl uses Nehemiah's story to teach how Christians can make a tangible difference in their families, churches, and communities. He begins by defining grace and telling missionary examples (the Moravians) to illustrate sacrificial commitment. From Nehemiah he draws three concrete steps: weep over brokenness, create your calling (volunteer rather than wait for a dramatic sign), and be prepared for spiritual battle by praying intentionally. He closes with a public invitation for people to commit to action - serving, praying, and being willing to be sent.

“"We married men whom we did not love at first because they knew if me marrying someone who is a genuine Christ follower ... is the only thing that's standing between someone going from death to life, from hell to heaven, then count me in for the sake of the gospel."” · Carl Kuhl

Take it with you

Practical steps: 1) Let brokenness move you to sorrow and action - weep over those who are lost or hurting. 2) Don't wait for a miraculous sign; volunteer where you see need and create your calling. 3) Pray daily as a spiritual weapon to clear the way for others and to contend for leaders, family, and the lost.

Highlights

Key Scriptures

Nehemiah 1"When I heard this, I sat down and wept... for days I mourned, fasted, and prayed to the God of heaven." (Nehemiah's response to Jerusalem's brokenness)
Nehemiah 2:1"I was serving the king his wine... the king asked, 'Why are you looking so sad?'... 'Send me to Judah to rebuild the city.'" (Nehemiah turns sorrow into a request to be sent.)
Nehemiah 4:15"Only half my men worked while the other half stood guard... the laborers carried on their work with one hand supporting their load and one hand holding a weapon." (Working amid opposition.)
Ephesians 6"We do not wrestle against flesh and blood..." (Paul's teaching that we face spiritual forces and need spiritual armor/prayer.)

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