Day 269 – Nehemiah 1-5

Talking Points

• Nehemiah, a cupbearer for King Artaxerxes, hears the report of Jerusalem’s desperate condition. Even enjoying personal success and comfort, he grieves over the “distress and reproach” of his people — of God’s people — and commits to restore God’s honor (Nehemiah 1:3).
• Nehemiah has a one-track mind and sells out to the cause set before him. While we could be impressed with his character, resolve, and skill for the mission, the story of Nehemiah is truly about the faithfulness of God. Nehemiah shows a resounding trust in Him. As we read the account, we note Nehemiah’s pattern: he sought God’s help, he sought God’s will, and he sought to walk in obedience. His every move was covered in prayer and fasting first. And, all the way through, Nehemiah points to God’s strength, giving Him the rightful credit for any success. What a pattern for us to follow!
• Again, we see the goodness of God’s hand — the king granted all that Nehemiah had asked for, “because the good hand of [his] God was on [him]” (2:8).
• “‘Let us arise and build.’ So they put their hands to the good work” (2:18). What a great sight it must have been as the wall takes shape! First, the once familiar gates — reminders of great days past — are revived. The Sheep Gate, the Fish Gate, and then the Old Gate are all rehung. Next, the Valley, the Refuse, and the Fountain Gates are restored to working order. Then the towers that had provided security, intimidating potential foes, rise up again in to the city skyline. The breaches are slowly filled in. People of all positions, professions, genders helped make repairs — from the high priest to perfumers, officials to goldsmiths, fathers to their daughters — what a beautiful sight of unity in this “good work.” Brick by brick, enthusiasm swells. Piece by piece, their reproach is replaced by praise to God. He is faithful!
• God’s plan always draws dissidents. It can be expected. In response to Nehemiah’s effort, the neighboring enemies mock ridicule, and seek to hinder God’s work. When the mocking and violent threats began, Nehemiah encouraged his people to “remember the Lord who is great and awesome” (4:14).

Thoughts

Do we really grieve over sin? Ours? Others? Our nation’s? Really? After reading Ezra’s prayer and now Nehemiah’s, we see the heart of these men. They plead God’s mercy — His compassion in His faithfulness to His covenant. They confess sin — that of their own and their people. They acknowledge the perfect justice of God — His righteousness in His judgment. They praise Him for His redemption — His power and grace in salvation. They ask for His help, knowing He alone can provide.

God, today, may we join the ranks of those “who delight to revere Your name” (1:11). May our prayers be sincerely lifted up to Your ear. We ask for your mercy for our many sins against You. Please help us walk in Your good and perfect will.