We will continue our reflection in the Book of
Nehemiah. This is a post-exilic book that complements the book of Ezra. While
Ezra deals with the rebuilding of the temple and the initial reformation of
Jerusalem after the Jews returned from captivity, Nehemiah deals with
rebuilding the broken walls and gates of Jerusalem.
Nehemiah was Artaxerxes’ cupbearer. To be chosen
as the king’s cupbearer, he must be a trustworthy man. Why? Being so close to
the most powerful man, he would obviously have the best opportunity to
assassinate the king. He would be the one to taste the king’s wine and food
before the latter drinks or eats them. This was to ensure that the king would
not fall prey to any attempt to take his life by poisoning him.
But in his position, Nehemiah would also be the best to influence the king to
be sympathetic and show favor toward his people. This book was a challenge for
God’s people to restore the broken walls of Jerusalem. For us, it’s a call for
us to strengthen the walls and gates of our spiritual life. As we explore this
book as will be gleaning strategic principles that will help us to build them.
We are living in days where the call to strengthen our spiritual life is more
needed than ever. So let’s brace up for an exciting journey!
Lessons we will be discovering from this book
includes the attitude we need to adopt in servicing God, the resilience we need
to overcome opposition, the diligence we need to complete our God’s entrusted
assignments, and the necessity to rely on God totally through prayer in all
undertakings.
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