Why Is Passion Important?

A wonderful example of the power of passion is found in the life of Nehemiah.  He had been living in exile with many other Jews and one day he received the tragic news that the city of Jerusalem was still in ruin.  His story reveals to us four keys to understanding the importance of exploring our passions and why it is so vital to finding our place in ministry.

1. Passion represents the EXPRESSION of our heart.

“When I heard these things, I sat down and wept.  For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven.” — Nehemiah 1:4

2. Passion provides the INSPIRATION for action.

“Then I prayed to the God of heaven, and I answered the king, ‘If it pleases the king and if your servant has found favor in his sight, let him send me to the city in Judah where my fathers are buried so that I can rebuild it.” — Nehemiah 2:4-5

3. Passion helps develop specific DIRECTION for ministry.

“Come let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace.  They replied, ‘Let us start rebuilding.’  So they began this good work.” — Nehemiah 2:17-18

4. Passion creates a sense of DETERMINATION within us—especially in the face of opposition.

“After I looked things over, I stood up and said to the nobles, the officials and the rest of the people, ‘Don’t be afraid of them.  Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes.’“

— Nehemiah 4:14