What courage Nehemiah had, what faith. Jerusalem was in ruins, the ones who had returned from exile were living in despair and disgrace. Who did Nehemiah think he was that he could fix the situation? Someone who totally depended on the Lord. When he first heard of the plight of the exiles, he wept, then began to mourn fast and pray for days. Finally, when the opportunity presented itself, he rose up and approached the king for permission to act.
Everything Nehemiah did was preceded by prayer, “O LORD, God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and obey his commands, let your ear be attentive and your eyes open to hear the prayer your servant is praying before you day and night for your servants, the people of Israel." -(Neh. 1:5-6 NIV) and Nehemiah's prayers did not fall on deaf ears. The king gave Nehemiah permission to go to Jerusalem with safe conduct and provision for the timber needed for rebuilding. Nehemiah may have been surrounded by scoffers and enemies, but undaunted, the work went forward. Nehemiah's prayers had laid the groundwork. The gracious hand of God was upon the ones who delighted in revering God's name.
2010 Post - Nehemiah 1-4: Cup Bearer to the King
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