I won’t identify the locations. Actually, the two churches which provide quite a contrast could be found in many places throughout the world. Let me share a verse from a wonderful Old Testament book and then I will tell you about two churches, close to each other, but so very different.

“So built we the wall; and all the wall was joined together unto the half thereof: for the people had a mind to work” (Nehemiah 4:6).

What an encouraging and victorious announcement: “So we built the wall!” Amidst great opposition from the enemies of the Lord and under extremely difficult working conditions, the wall was being built. God was blessing and had given the people a heart of determination to work.

It makes me think of quite a stark contrast and comparison. Two churches about the same size and not too far apart faced similar situations as far as attendance. The first church had a good many who were more than content to just show up and leave the work of the ministry to just a few. The second church had a good many who believed that they must serve together and that great blessings would come because they purposed to serve the Lord. Which church do you think saw greater results?

How far-reaching this wonderful truth really is: It is amazing what takes place when people trust the Lord and have a mind to work. This is true in the workplace, in the home, and most certainly in our local churches.