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Hi ladies! I’m so glad you’re joining me for this 13-week journey through the book of Nehemiah.

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Warm weather like today always brings me back to the days I spent alongside my dad in the garden. Side by side, we’d turn the soil, pull the weeds, and clear the rocks until the ground was finally ready for Mom’s flowers. I didn’t realize it at the time, but those afternoons were more than chores—they were sermons for the soul.

A farmer once told me, “The more you understand farming, the more the Bible comes alive.” And he was absolutely right. Tilling soil, planting seeds, pulling weeds—these everyday chores from our little backyard gardens have a way of echoing eternal truths. They point us to the condition of our hearts. They remind us that spiritual growth isn’t instant or effortless—it’s cultivated. And just like our yard needed to be worked before anything can bloom, our hearts sometimes need to be broken open before God can grow something new.

The Bible tells us, “My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.” (Psalm 51:17, NIV).

That word “broken” comes from the Hebrew word šāḇar—it means more than just something shattered. It paints the picture of something breaking open so that something else can be born. It’s the language of labor. Of bringing forth. Of new life coming out of what feels like pain.

This kind of breaking isn’t the end. In fact, sometimes it’s the birthplace of your calling. The breaking is what makes the soil soft. It’s what makes the heart humble. And time and again throughout Scripture, we see this pattern unfold. Joseph is thrown into a pit and sold into slavery before he ever sees a palace. David is hunted down and betrayed before he takes the throne. Moses spends forty years in the wilderness before God calls him back to Egypt. Every single one of them had to be broken before they could be used.

This week in our study of Nehemiah chapter 2, we see this same truth. Nehemiah’s grief isn’t wasted. His sorrow becomes the catalyst of his calling. God uses the burden on his heart to shape the work of his hands. Before Nehemiah ever lifted a stone to rebuild the wall, he first knelt in prayer. Before he could lead others, he had to be broken for what broke God’s heart.

So, if you’re in a season of sorrow or feel like something in your life has been turned upside down, don’t despise the breaking of your heart. It may be that God is doing a deeper work in you than you can see right now—one that leads to something new, something lasting, something shaped by His purpose for your life.

Week at a Glance

Would you like a printable copy of this schedule? If so, click here.

A Note About Journaling
As you move through this study, consider keeping a personal journal nearby. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just a simple notebook where you can jot down your prayers, reflections, and anything the Lord impresses on your heart. This is your space to write freely, revisit lessons, and record your own journey of restoration.

TUESDAY

Watch the Video – Visit Time-Warp Wife to watch this week’s video. Or click here to watch it on Youtube.

Read Nehemiah 2:1–8 – Focus on Nehemiah’s interaction with the king and God’s favor.

Read Chapter 2 in the Study Guide – Reflect on how Nehemiah models the Holy Spirit’s work in equipping us through courage and prayer.

Begin the Study Guide Questions – Start answering the questions.

Journaling Encouragement – Keep a personal journal close by this week. Jot down prayers, Scriptures, or moments when God is challenging you to act with courage.

WEDNESDAY

Reflect on Fear vs. Faith – Consider how Nehemiah acted in courage despite his fear.

Scripture Focus – Look up Esther 4:11 and compare it with Nehemiah’s boldness.

Community Connection – Share a personal fear you’ve faced and how God helped you step out in faith (as you’re comfortable). Click here to visit the facebook group.

THURSDAY

Read Nehemiah 2:9–16 – Notice how Nehemiah prepared and assessed the damage.

Continue Study Guide Questions – Explore the idea of spiritual inspection and restoration.

Journaling Prompt – What “gates” in your life might be blocked, neglected, or in need of the Holy Spirit’s renewing work?

FRIDAY

Read the Last Section of the Chapter – Pay attention to how Nehemiah responds to opposition.

Scripture Exploration – Look up James 1:2–4 and reflect on how trials have shaped your faith.

Read Darlene’s Closing Thoughts – Find encouragement at timewarpwife.com or in your inbox.

Facebook Group Sharing – How has this chapter challenged or encouraged you this week?

SATURDAY

Reflect on Prayer – Review the section “Prayer is Energized by the Power of God.”

Bible Study Focus – Look up the fasting examples listed in the guide (Exodus, Esther, Matthew, Acts).

Prayer Prompt – Write a prayer in your journal about a current burden or decision.

SUNDAY – No assignments today. Let today be a day of spiritual renewal.

MONDAY

Examine and Reflect – Re-read Nehemiah 2:17–20. What’s one thing God is calling you to rebuild?

Final Study Guide Questions – Finish any remaining questions in the chapter.

Final Community Post – Share one truth or takeaway with the group as we prepare for Chapter 3.

This Week’s Challenge

Identify one area where fear, discouragement, or past failure has held you back. This week, take a small but intentional step
of obedience in that area—whether it’s making a call, starting a habit, or seeking restoration with someone. Trust God with the outcome and let your action be an act of faith.

This Week’s Bible Verse

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