Zachariah 3 – God is for His people

In Zachariah 3, we arrive at the fourth of the prophet’s eight visions. The first three visions were given to encourage the builders, but this fourth vision, along with the next one, is intended to encourage the leadership of Joshua, the high priest, and Zerubbabel.

In this vision, Zechariah sees Satan accusing the high priest Joshua of being unclean, implying that the people he represents are unclean as well. The insinuation is that after their long exile in idolatrous Babylon, they are rendered unfit to enter God’s presence. Essentially, Satan is suggesting that the people are wasting their time rebuilding the temple, as their impurity means that any sacrifices offered there would not be acceptable to God.

However, God responds to this accusation by affirming that He has not abandoned His chosen people. Although their exile in Babylon was a punishment for their sins, God has now delivered them. He has rescued them from their enemies, brought them back to their land, and cleansed their sins. Now, He is restoring the temple and re-establishing its priesthood.

In verses 6-7, Joshua and his fellow priests are admonished to remain faithful to God in fulfilling their duties in the new temple that He will entrust to them. By doing so, they are not only standing in God’s presence without fear of Satan’s accusations but are also playing a crucial role in preparing the way for the coming of the Messiah. The restoration of the priesthood is a sign that assures the people of the fulfillment of God’s promise.

The Messiah is referred to as the “Branch”, a title deeply rooted in Messianic prophecy. Verses 9-10 introduce a specially engraved stone to be set in the temple, serving as a poignant reminder of the Messiah’s redemptive work. His mission is to cleanse the land of sin and usher in a new era of peace and prosperity, where everyone will be invited to sit under their vine and fig tree.

It is so reassuring to know that God will not abandon us. It encourages us to always turn to Him no matter how badly we feel about our guilt. His grace and mercy are always available. After He has dealt with us, He will deliver us from their predicament despite our past. Obedience and commitment to God are two critical requirements if we are to experience the completion of His plan in our lives. This passage also assures us of the era of peace we will have with Jesus, the Messiah.  

Zachariah 2:1-13 – Hope and assurance in God

Zechariah 2 presents a compelling vision of hope and divine assurance for the temple builders in Jerusalem. This is Zachariah’s third vision. Here, he witnesses a young man measuring Jerusalem, preparing to rebuild its walls. Yet, a heavenly messenger intervenes, revealing a glorious promise: the new Jerusalem will far surpass its former glory, expanding beyond its old boundaries. This city will no longer need physical walls because the Lord Himself will be its protector, a fiery wall surrounding His people and His glory within.

In verses 6-9, the call goes out to those still in Babylon, urging them not to settle in comfort but to return quickly to Jerusalem. There, they will partake in the blessings that await and also escape their captor’s impending judgment.

The final verses, 10-13, are a divine reassurance to the temple laborers. God promises to dwell among them again, transforming the temple into a beacon of His presence. This prophecy extends beyond Israel, foretelling a time when people from all nations would abandon their idols and join Israel as one people under God. This vision is not just of a restored temple but of a renewed community where God's presence is the ultimate blessing for all who seek Him.

Like God's people, we must not be so acclimatized to this world's comfortable lifestyle that we forget our goals and ultimate destiny. As we seek God, our ultimate blessings will outweigh our present comfort. We can be God’s instrument of transformation and renewal among those who will seek Him.

Zachariah 1:18-21 – Trusting God to overcome adversity

Zachariah 1:18-21 is the second vision in the first set of three visions that Zechariah receives. These visions as we have established are intended to encourage the Jewish people as they work on rebuilding the Temple after their return from exile.

In this vision, Zechariah sees four horns, which symbolize the foreign powers that have oppressed and scattered the people of Judah, Israel, and Jerusalem. When he asks the angel about these horns, he learns that they represent the nations that have caused suffering to the Jewish community.

Following the revelation about the horns, Zechariah sees four craftsmen. The angels explain that these craftsmen have been sent by God to confront and deal with the oppressive nations (the four horns). Their role is to ensure that these powers will be overthrown and will no longer be able to harm the Jewish people.

God is here promising protection and the eventual restoration of His people. It is to encourage them to rebuild the Temple and their community. This message of hope for the community reassures them that the nations that have scattered and oppressed them will be defeated and will no longer have the power to abuse them.

Zachariah 1:18-21 also assures us today that as God’s people, we can find hope in our adversities. We are never alone in whatever we may encounter. God promises that help will always be available. While injustice may often be experienced, divine help is at work to protect us during our helplessness. God is sovereign, and His plan can never be thwarted. This should reinforce our faith in Him. Top of Form

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Zachariah 1:7-17 – In God there's hope and restoration

In Zachariah 1:7 -6:8, the Prophet Zachariah unfolds a series of eight profound visions. The two pivotal visions are nestled amidst two sets of three. The first set of three visions serve as messages of encouragement to the builders, while the middle two are given to uplift the leaders Zerubbabel and Joshua. The final three visions, a beacon of hope, assure the ultimate victory for God and his people.

Verse 7 says that Zechariah receives his visions "on the twenty-fourth day of the eleventh month, which is the month Shebat, in the second year of Darius."  By this time, the work on rebuilding the temple would have gone on for five months; three months were taken up with preparing the foundations.

Zechariah 1:8-17 unveils a vision of the Prophet Zechariah. In this vision, he witnesses a man riding a red horse among myrtle trees, with other horses trailing behind. The heart of this vision lies in the dialogue Zechariah had with an angel. Curious, the Prophet asks the angel, "My lord, what are these?" The angel, in response, unveils the purpose of these patrols. The Lord sent them to watch over the empire, who returned, reporting that there was peace and rest.

Though this was good news to the Persians, they were bad news to the Jews. For they had been under the bondage of the overlords for seventy years already and were longing for freedom

In conversation with Zechariah, the angel implores the Lord to end withholding His mercy from Jerusalem and the cities of Judah, which have borne the brunt of His anger for seventy years. In His response, the Lord offers comfort, expressing His deep concern for Jerusalem and Zion. His anger is now directed towards the nations that have over-exerted their punishment on Israel.

The Lord pledges to return to Jerusalem with mercy, promising the rebuilding of the temple and the prosperity of Judah's cities. His comforting words bring hope and reassurance as He once again declares His choice of Jerusalem.

Personally, these verses promise that amid our difficulty and uncertainty, there is hope and reassurance of mercy and restoration in God. This is a call to remain steadfast in faith, seek God, and trust in His intervention with ultimate victory. On behalf of God, we are to comfort and support those who are facing adversity

Zachariah 1:1-6 – Self-awareness and repentance

Both Zachariah and Haggai, as fellow prophets and companions, were entrusted with the urgent and significant task of delivering God’s message to the Jewish community in Jerusalem during the post-exilic period. Their role was pivotal, and the message they carried was of utmost importance to the Jews who had returned from exile.  

Their primary mission was to motivate and encourage the Jews to act on their self-centered complacency and return to undertake the monumental task of rebuilding the temple. However, Zechariah also imparted significant teachings on a wide array of subjects, equipping God’s people for the future age of the Messiah.

According to Haggai 1:1, when Zechariah delivered his first message, Haggai had already been preaching for about two months. In Haggai’s first two recorded messages, he asserted that all of Israel’s difficulties were due to the people’s selfishness and disobedience in failing to rebuild the temple. Haggai’s powerful preaching motivated the people who immediately resumed construction.

In Zechariah 1:1-6, he delivered a message urging the people to deeply reflect on their ancestors’ predicament, repent, and take heed of the words of the prophets. He emphasized that these actions are not only crucial but also transformative in their journey towards spiritual renewal. 

Zachariah’s call was not only for them to return to rebuild the temple but also to recognize their wrongdoings, embrace God's discipline, turn away from disobedience, and embark on a new path of devotion to God. This acknowledgment and acceptance are vital stages in their journey towards repentance and transformation.

This passage shows us the importance of self-awareness because the first step to change is self-awareness. Without it, a person won’t know where to begin to change. The recalling of Israel’s past was to make them aware of where they were wrong and what they needed to repent from.

Similarly, we need to make appropriate alignments to live right with God. How can we start to align unless we are aware of our flaws? How can we be mindful of our flaws if we don't make time for introspection? Let us take time to reflect on our lives and actions.     

Haggai 2:20-23 - In God’s victorious plan

In Haggai 2:20-23 is Haggai’s fourth and final message. It was a message from God to Zerubbabel, the governor. The message was given to him on the same day as his third message. Zerubbabel, a descendant of King David, held the rightful claim to the throne of Israel. However, due to the prevailing Persian rule, he was only permitted to serve as a governor. 

Despite the political constraints, Haggai’s words were a divine reassurance to Zerubbabel. He was assured of his unique role in God’s plan to restore the nation of Israel and establish His kingdom.

Haggai’s prophecy was ultimately fulfilled through Jesus, the Messiah, who was a direct descendant of Zerubbabel. Although Zerubbabel did not personally witness the fulfillment of the promise, his role in God’s plan was affirmed when his name appeared in the genealogy of the Lord Jesus in Matthew 1:12-26. This connection between the Old Testament prophecy and its New Testament fulfillment testifies to the continuity of God’s plan throughout history.

The key lesson of Haggai’s final message to Zerubbabel is obvious. It is a clear reminder that God’s ultimate plans are more significant than our own and that He works through generations to fulfill His promises. Despite all political or social constraints, we can be sure that God’s plan will come to pass.

Whether we know it or not, we have a role in God’s plan in Christ Jesus through the church. Just as Zerubbabel’s role was affirmed through the fulfillment of the prophecy in Jesus, we, too, can find purpose and significance in our lives as we trust in God’s more excellent plan for us through His church. Let us be faithful to Him and obey His mandate to the worldwide Body of Christ.  

Haggai 2:10-19 – Embracing faithfulness and hope

On the 24th day of the 9th month in the second year of King Darius’ reign, Prophet Haggai delivered his third message to the people. This message came at a significant time, about three months after the completion of the foundation work and approximately one month after Prophet Zachariah had successfully encouraged the people to repent (Zachariah 1:1-6).

Haggai’s third message emphasizes the importance of adhering to the Law God had given. He explains that sin has a far-reaching impact and could spread more readily than righteousness. Haggai stresses that simply going through the motions of obedience is not enough to please God or earn His favor.

In Haggai 2:15-18, the prophet Haggai exhorts the people to reflect on God’s past deeds on their behalf. He suggests that their current state of poverty is linked to their neglect of the Lord’s temple due to a lack of faithfulness. However, Haggai concludes his message on a positive note in verse 19 by offering a hopeful promise of future prosperity.

These verses show us that genuine obedience and faithfulness to God are essential. Merely going through the motions of religious practices without true conviction and devotion is not good enough to please God. This passage underscores the significance of reflecting on God’s past faithfulness and the need to acknowledge our personal shortcomings. It is also necessary for us to trust in God’s promises for the future.

We must reflect on God’s faithfulness in the past and sincerely trust and obey Him for the future. This will help us maintain hope in His promises for the future despite present challenges.

Haggai 2:1-9 – Being a part of God’s grand design

At the beginning of this book, we are told that Haggai gave God’s first message on the first day of the 6th month in the 2nd year of King Darius' reign.  The second message recorded in Haggai 2:1-9 was given on the 21st day of the 7th month. The message was again given to Zerubbabel and Jeshua for the people.

The project’s groundwork for the temple reconstruction was initially set sixteen years before the pause in construction. There was likely some deterioration over the years of inactivity. As a result, additional work was required before the actual construction of the building could commence. Approximately a month after work resumed, enough of the reconstructed foundation had been revealed for the builders to envision the dimensions of the planned temple.

In Haggai 2:1-3, some very old individuals who remembered Solomon’s magnificent temple might have commented that the new one was less impressive. Knowing that this could discourage the builders, Haggai delivered this second message to encourage them. In verses 4-5, Haggai, as God’s spokesman, reassured them that God would be with them, just as he had been with their ancestors when he brought them out of Egypt.

Verses 6-8 further assured the people that just as God shook the earth when the law was given at Mount Sinai, He would again ‘shake’ heaven and earth, the sea and the dry land, through this temple more excellently. This reconstructed temple would be the Jewish nation’s spiritual center, with a grandeur surpassing Solomon’s temple. It would be far more splendid and glorious than the discouraged workmen could imagine. God, the owner of the world’s wealth, would direct rulers of other nations to bring silver and gold to beautify it.

However, far greater glory would come through the multitudes from many nations who would join with Israel in the true temple. Prophetically, Haggai in verse 9 was pointing to the Messiah’s real dwelling place where peace would be found. God would be among all the redeemed, uniting them in a living temple that He would establish in the world in unparalleled glory.

God’s plans are indeed grander and more magnificent than we can imagine. When we set our hearts and minds on His glorious plan, we can persevere through any discouragement in life. Be assured that God is our source. He will provide the resources for the fulfillment of His grand design. We thank God that in Christ, we are now participants in His glorious plan.  

Haggai 1 – Give God the priority

Haggai 1 contains the prophet’s first prophecy. His words from the Lord were told to Zerubbabel, the governor, and Jeshua, the High Priest, highlighting the people’s complacency and lackadaisical attitude. 

In verses 1-2, God, through Haggai, sheds light on the Jews’ nonchalance. After laying the foundation of the temple, they halted midway. We learned from our earlier discussions that the task had stopped for nearly sixteen years. The people made the excuse that they faced personal hardships and opposition from their enemies and felt it wasn’t the right time to start the work.

Haggai expressed his concern in verses 3-4, questioning why they could then build their own houses. He asked them how they could use a large amount of the limited timber available to construct their homes despite the shortage of wood needed for the temple. Their selfish use of resources led to poverty and famine, serving as a wake-up call for them.

In verses 7-11, God, through Haggai, told the people to reconsider their complaints about their financial struggles hindering the temple’s construction. Their reluctance to contribute to the temple’s construction was the real reason for their predicament. The underlying issue was that they had become too self-centered, prioritizing their desires over those of God. Consequently, the people were instructed to go into the forests and harvest timber to aid in constructing the temple.

Verses 11-15 show that Haggai’s direct preaching led to a swift response. The people, acknowledging the truth in his words, heeded his call and, in a little over three weeks, had recommenced work on the temple. He reassured them of his presence as they began to obey God and revere him.

Haggai 1 teaches us powerful lessons on priorities and obedience to God. It also highlights the dangers of complacency.  Through this chapter, we hear a call to prioritize our duties to God over those of our desires. When we heed God’s call, we will experience the positive outcomes of obeying Him.

Introduction to the Books Haggai & Zachariah

After discussing the books of Esther, Ezra, and Nehemiah, our next few reflections will be on the messages of the Prophets Haggai and Zachariah.

Israel’s historical background provides the context of the messages of both the prophets. When King Cyrus of Persia permitted the exiles to return to their homeland, a group of Jews returned to Jerusalem. Though under the overall control of Persia, the Jews were allowed to establish their leadership in Jerusalem. Their early leaders were the governor Zerubbabel and the high priest Joshua (or Jeshua). These were still the leaders when Haggai and Zechariah began their ministry.

Upon arriving in Jerusalem, the Jews wanted to rebuild the temple. They established an altar for sacrifice and laid the temple's foundation in the second year. However, local opposition halted the construction progress. Haggai and Zachariah, both post-exilic prophets, were chosen by God to challenge the exile to complete the temple rebuilding, which had halted.

The people attributed their failure to opposition from local enemies and difficulties caused by famine. However, the prophets could see the actual reasons for their failure. To both prophets, the issue lay with the people themselves. They were energetic, working for their interests, but lacked the willingness to work for God. The root of the problem was spiritual rather than political or material.

The prophets’ foresight of the situation was quickly validated. When the people resumed work and encountered renewed opposition, the Persian king stepped in to support the Jews. He issued a second decree to affirm King Cyrus’ initial decree and provided financial assistance to ensure the successful completion of the project.

The initial teachings of Haggai and Zechariah were meant to inspire, encourage, and uplift the Jews during their early challenges. Haggai delivered four messages, and Zechariah delivered two for six months. Zechariah shared his third message two years later, and his final two messages were given later in his life. Haggai’s straightforward preaching and Zechariah’s visionary storytelling provided thought-provoking experiences for their listeners, leaving a lasting impact.

Haggai focused on rousing the people from their spiritual slumber and urging them to recommence rebuilding the temple without delay. Zechariah, in harmony with Haggai’s urgent ministry, offered additional guidance. He aimed to spark a lasting spiritual renewal in the people, preparing them to serve God more effectively in the future.

Through Zechariah, God was further preparing his people for the purpose for which he had chosen them. That purpose would find its fulfillment in the coming of the Messiah, the establishment of his kingdom, and the salvation of people worldwide.

The latter half of Zechariah’s book, which consists of two messages delivered probably later in his life, shows that the Jews’ task would not be easy. There would be bitter conflicts with the forces of evil, but the Jews, with their unwavering faith, would ultimately see God’s kingdom triumph.

Let's brace up and be ready to dig in.

Nehemiah 13:23-31 – Fearless leadership

During Ezra’s era, the people made a solemn vow to send away their foreign wives due to concerns about diluting their identity in God through intermarriages with foreigners. However, this practice resurfaced and became widespread once again, posing a significant and pressing threat to the integrity of Israel as God's people. The potential for corruption was a severe concern requiring immediate attention.

Nehemiah set out to deal with the widespread intermarriages among the people, emphasizing the dire consequences it could bring. He demanded that they not allow their children to marry foreigners, reminding them of the sin it had caused King Solomon. He even cited how he dealt with Joiada, son of the high priest Eliashib, who was the son-in-law of Sanballat.

In Nehemiah, we witness an inspiring display of fearlessness as he boldly confronts and effectively resolves a challenging situation. His unwavering determination and remarkable leadership were instrumental in guiding the people of his time to align their lives with the principles outlined in the law of God.

Nehemiah’s fearless defiance in the face of adversity provided genuine encouragement and powerful motivation for the entire community, igniting a renewed sense of purpose and unwavering resolve within the people.

Here are some leadership principles for today:

• Courage: Bold and impactful leaders guide and inspire others toward noble goals.

• Perseverance: Effective leaders help people overcome significant obstacles by staying faithful and determined to a task.

• Alignment: Great leaders make decisions that align people's lives with sound principles and core values.

• Inspiration: Effective leaders motivate those around them, driving positive change and resilience and instilling a sense of hope that empowers the community.

 

 

 

Nehemiah 13:15-22 – Don’t abuse the Sabbath

Another issue Nehemiah had to deal with when he returned to Jerusalem after 12 years was the people’s violation of the Sabbath. Nehemiah 13:15-22 said he discovered that the people were working and conducting trade on the holy Sabbath, a severe violation that required immediate cessation.

He promptly acted and reprimanded the nobles for neglect, reminding them of the dire consequences their forefathers faced for similar Sabbath violations. He instilled in them a sense of caution and respect for the Sabbath.

So, Nehemiah closed the city gates during the Sabbath to prevent the people from bringing their goods into the city to sell. He also prohibited selling outside the gates or preparing to sell as soon as the Sabbath ended.

After fulfilling these requirements, verse 22 mentions that he commanded the Levites to purify themselves and come as gatekeepers to sanctify the Sabbath day. His swift and decisive action underscored the urgency and importance of observing the Sabbath rightly.

Nehemiah also made a heartfelt plea to God, asking the Lord to remember him and show him compassion according to His great lovingkindness. This prayer reflected Nehemiah’s humility and deep reliance on God’s mercy and grace in his leadership role.

This passage offers a lesson on the importance of carefully observing the Sabbath, a day which believers are prone to abuse. The Sabbath should be a day we set aside to honor God and renew our relationship with Him. Sadly, many believers spend the Sabbath catching up with chores left undone because of the week's busyness.  In so doing, we neglect the time God gave us to renew our relationship and fellowship with Him. A good appreciation of the Sabbath will help us to manage our work-life balance. We must learn to rest in God, especially on the Sabbath.         

Nehemiah 13:10-14 – Be faithful in tithing & giving

The regression of religious duties during Nehemiah’s absence was not only confined to one incidence, where they allowed Tobiah’s family to live in a room in the temple but also the breach of the principle of the tithings. Verse 10 says that the Levites and singers were deprived of the portion due them. For their livelihood, the Levites and singers were compelled to leave their service in the temple to work in the fields.

Nehemiah rebuked the officials for neglecting the temple as he restored the Levites and singers to their rightful positions. This act of restoration, described in verse 12, inspired actions. It was a significant moment in Judah, as all responded by returning their tithes and bringing grain, wine, and oil to the storehouses.

In his wisdom, Nehemiah also appointed individuals of utmost responsibility and reliability to manage the distribution of the collected tithes. These were not just names but trust officials - Shelemiah the priest; Zadok, the scribe, and Pedaiah of the Levites, and in addition to them was Hanan, the son of Zaccur, the son of Mattaniah. They provided reassurance to the people.

Nehemiah’s prayer in verse 14 was not a mere formality. It was an expression of his commitment and faith in God, as he usually did. He asked God to remember him and what he had done, seeking God’s blessing and approval of what he had instituted for the temple. This prayer demonstrates the depth of Nehemiah's commitment and his unwavering faith in God’s guidance and approval.

Tithing is not just every worshipper’s duty, but a crucial responsibility and act in obedience. Contributions to God’s work are the lifeblood that sustains the workers and maintains God’s ministries in the church. Neglect in giving would not just hamper but also undermine the smooth execution of God's work. It is our solemn duty to be faithful and cheerful in our giving, knowing that every contribution supports the church’s mission. Remember, God loves a cheerful giver.   

Nehemiah 13:1-9 – Guard our relationship with God

Nehemiah 13:1-3 narrates that when the remnants read the law, they were reminded to exclude the Ammonites and the Moabites. Due to their historical actions, these groups were considered unworthy to enter the temple. They failed to offer the necessary assistance to the Israelites during their journey to the promised land but instead enlisted Balaam to curse them. However, God intervened and transformed Balaam’s curse into a blessing for His people. To maintain the sanctity of God's temple, it was then mandated that pagans should be denied entry.

Verses 4-9 describe the decline of the remnants during Nehemiah’s absence from Jerusalem. Verse 6 reveals that King Artaxerxes recalled Nehemiah to Persia after he had served a significant twelve-year tenure as the governor of Jerusalem. In his absence, there was a period of religious regression among the Jews, and their old adversaries, Sanballat and Tobiah, began to exert influence in Jerusalem.

Eliashib, the high priest, was at fault for allowing a member of the high priestly family to marry Sanballat’s daughter and for permitting Tobiah to reside in one of the temple rooms. These actions, a clear violation of the law that Nehemiah had worked hard to uphold demanded immediate attention. As Tobiah was an Ammonite, when Nehemiah returned, he promptly addressed and corrected these issues. He dispelled Tobiah and his family and had the room purified, restoring the sanctity of the temple.

One lesson we can learn from this passage is the significance of preserving the sanctity of sacred spaces. Nehemiah’s actions in addressing the violations of the law and restoring the sanctity of the temple demonstrate the importance of upholding the principles and values that are central to our beliefs and practices. This serves as a reminder for us to remain vigilant in safeguarding the integrity of our relationship with God and the significance it holds in our lives.

 

Nehemiah 12 – Faithful stewardship

Nehemiah 12:1-26 meticulously lists the priests and Levites. The passage mentions the names of those who returned with Zerubbabel and Jeshua in verses 1-9. Verses 1-7 detail the 22 chief priests, while verses 8-9 name the eight chief Levites and their duties.

Verses 10-11 provide the lineage of six generations of Levites descended from Jeshua. Verses 12-21 list twenty-one heads of the priestly families during the time of the high priest Joiakim. Verses 22-26 contain records of the ordinary temple servants, with some records extending beyond the time of Nehemiah.

In Nehemiah 10, we learned about the reading of the law and the people’s dedication to the covenant. Nehemiah 12:27 picks up from where Nehemiah 10:39 ends. After reading the law, there is a joyful celebration of the Festival of Tabernacles, and the people reaffirm their commitment to the covenant. Subsequently, the wall is dedicated, with active involvement from priests, Levites, singers, musicians, and prominent citizens.

When the people gathered at a specific location next to the wall, they split into two groups. They walked in opposite directions around the wall. Ezra led one group, as described in verses 31-37, while Nehemiah led the other group, as described in verses 38-39. The two groups eventually convened at the temple, where they came together to make offerings, praise God, and celebrate with great joy, showcasing their unity and shared happiness.

In Nehemiah 12:4-47, we learn about the appointment of officials responsible for overseeing the collection and distribution of funds and supplies brought to the temple by the people. It was a practice for all Israelites to contribute one-tenth of their income, which was then allocated among the Levites. The Levites, who supported the priests and were involved in providing musical, singing, and other services in the temple, also gave one-tenth of their income to support the priests.

This chapter teaches us three key lessons concerning wise stewardship, faithful support for ministry, and generous giving. We must be faithful stewards to support the work of God and His kingdom. We must be willing to support those who have given their lives to serve God. Here, we see the practice of tithing, leaving us with a call to be faithful in our giving to the work of God. 

Nehemiah 11 – Participate to advance the church

In Nehemiah 7:4, Jerusalem is revealed to be large and spacious. Still, its population was small, and many houses still needed to be built. Most people who returned from exile settled in the surrounding countryside rather than within the city. Those who did settle in Jerusalem were mainly leaders.

To boost the population in Jerusalem, Nehemiah 1:1-2 mentions that lots were cast to have one out of every ten people settle in the city. Some volunteers who came to live in the city were celebrated.

The passage in Nehemiah 11:3-19 details the inhabitants of Jerusalem, including the various family heads and descendants from the tribes of Judah and Benjamin. It provides a breakdown of the priests, Levites, and temple servants living in the city, highlighting the numbers of each group and their respective living arrangements.

Furthermore, it lists the priestly and Levitical heads and their descendants who resided in Jerusalem. The passage accounts for the presence of other groups such as the porters, temple workers, and singers under the leadership of the sons of Asaph, and Pethohiah, the Persian king’s representative. It also provides a comprehensive list of the cities and towns occupied by the Jews in Judah and Benjamin, further elaborating on their locations.

This chapter shows us that leadership, organization, community participation, and engagement are critical elements for any church to thrive. While we cheer people who willingly volunteer in ministry, we must also encourage those who are more reserved to serve. An excellent, godly community is one where leaders and members prioritize God. Regardless of our capabilities, everyone can serve to make the community better for the glory of God.   

Nehemiah 10 – Seriously keep our promise to God

On the 24th day of the 7th month, having acknowledged their shortcomings, the remnant of the Jews made a covenant. This covenant was a solemn promise to dutifully uphold God’s commandments, judgments, and statutes. According to Nehemiah 9:38, the nation’s leaders signed and sealed a written pledge during this assembly, establishing their commitment to God and the entire community.

Nehemiah 10:1-27 is a list of people who signed the written pledge. As the leader and governor, Nehemiah was the first to sign, demonstrating his outstanding leadership. His act was followed by the priests (verses 2-8), the Levites (verses 9-13), and the civil leaders (verses 14-27), each one reinforcing the importance of the covenant.

The covenant was signed by the nobles, priests, Levites, porters, singers, and all other Jews who had consciously decided to separate themselves from the people of the lands and adhere to the law of God. This conscious decision indicates their commitment to God. After signing, they solemnly swore an oath to uphold the covenant. They even invoked a curse upon themselves should they fail to observe it.

The Jews’ commitment to follow God’s laws covered various religious duties. They were dedicated to obeying God’s instructions on marriages, the Sabbath and other holy days, the year of release, temple tax, wood offerings, first-fruit offerings, and paying tithes. This thoroughness in their willingness to be true to their religious duties demonstrates their dedication.

This chapter shows us that nothing is more important in life than being serious in our promises to God. Faithfully obeying Him must never be relegated to second place. A written pledge may be helpful to keep us focused. But in all we do, do it with sincerity, all for His glory.     

Nehemiah 9 – Towards a renewed and transformed community

On the 24th day of the 7th month, the children of Israel gathered. They came dressed in repentant clothing to observe a fast. They deliberately distanced themselves from forbidden alliances with foreigners.

The whole assembly then confessed their sins and the sins of their ancestors and dedicated a quarter of the day, about three hours, to listening to the reading of the law. Following this, they spent another quarter of the day in worship.

Eight Levites, Jeshua, Bani, Kadmiel, Shebaniah, Bunni, Sherebiah, Bani, and Chenani, stood on a platform in the broad place before the Water Gate and cried unto God with a loud voice. Then, five of these Levites, along with three others—Hashabneiah, Hodiah, and Pethahiah—assumed the role of leaders. They asked the congregation to stand and bless the Lord and then led the children of Israel in a prayer of repentance and confession, guiding them through this crucial moment.

From verses 5 to 37, the prayer outlines Israel’s history from Abraham’s days to the present day, contrasting God's goodness with Israel’s ingratitude and faithfulness with Israel's unfaithfulness.

The prayer concludes with acknowledging Israel’s responsibility for their current situation, justifying God’s actions towards Israel, and asking God to recognize the seriousness of Israel’s present troubles.

Verse 38 says that having confessed their failures; the people made a fresh covenant promise to be faithful to God. This covenant, a solemn agreement, confirmed their commitment with a written pledge signed by their leaders. This was a tangible sign of their dedication and responsibility. 

This chapter shows us the steps we need to take to build a spiritually renewed and transformed community. We start by recognizing where we have collectively fallen and repenting from it. Thorough repentance requires us to understand where we have gone astray, prompting a deep introspection of our lives as a community. Then, we must all return to God, acknowledge His faithfulness, confess our unfaithfulness, and make a commitment to stay true to our promises.

 

Nehemiah 8:13-18 – Gather to celebrate God’s faithfulness

The next day, all the heads of households, the priests, and the Levites gathered to listen to Ezra explain the words of the law. As they heard the law being read and explained, they discovered that they were to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles.

According to the law, the children of Israel were instructed to gather branches from the mountains and construct temporary shelters. They were to live in them during the seven-day observance of the Feast of Tabernacles. With its huge historical significance, this important feast was instituted for the people of Israel to express their gratitude and commemorate when they migrated from Egypt to the Promised Land.

Upon learning this decree, the people united and cooperated. They gathered branches and built shelters for the upcoming Feast of Tabernacles. When the feast began, they moved to live in these shelters. They stayed in them for the entire celebration, thus observing the feast in a way that had yet to be done since the time of Joshua.

The people found profound joy and deep spiritual fulfillment in faithfully obeying the law. During the feast days, Ezra openly read the Book of the Law to the gathered assembly. On the 8th day, following the conclusion of the feast, the Israelites held a solemn assembly as commanded by the Law of Moses.

The importance of obedience and unity of God’s people can never be overemphasized. God’s word, when understood must be obeyed. Know it or not, obeying God always brings a deep sense of fulfillment and joy. The church today must remember the goodness of God and what He had done for us through Christ. We too must not neglect our weekly gathering to commemorate, celebrate, express our gratitude, and remember the faithfulness of God.

Nehemiah 8:1-12 – Leaders collaborate, coordinate and celebrate

In the Book of Ezra, we are inspired by the leadership of Zerubbabel and Ezra, who led the first two groups of Jews back from Babylon after 70 years of captivity. Their dedication and faith led to the rebuilding of the altar and the temple in Jerusalem.

Nehemiah, another strong leader, led the third group back to Jerusalem and oversaw the miraculous rebuilding of the walls in just 52 days. The wall's completion on the 25th day of the 6th month was not just a physical achievement, but a moment of great unity and joy for the people, demonstrating the power of collective effort and faith.

With Israel's mid-year meetings and festivals scheduled for the 7th month, it was a perfect time for the people to gather in Jerusalem and celebrate this significant achievement. The people were united in their joy, gathered "at the square before the Water Gate."

Nehemiah 8:1-8 vividly describes the scene where Ezra, assisted by the Levites, read and explained the Law to the people. The reverence and respect the people showed towards the Law, despite it being so long since they had heard it, demonstrates their faith in it.  

Ezra stood before the congregation, with men, women, and children gathered to hear the words of the book. The people stood and listened attentively as he read from morning until noontime. When Ezra opened the book, everyone stood, blessed the Lord, and worshipped with reverence. Ezra and his assistants read distinctly from the Pentateuch, as the Levites help the people to understand what was read.

Verses 9-12 describe how the people reacted when they heard the words of the Law. They began to weep because they realized they had broken the Law in many ways. This emotional response makes us feel connected to their journey of faith and understanding.

Here are two lessons from the passage:

Firstly, we learn to make God's Word central in every gathering. God's Word inspires and guides us, helping us see where we have strayed so that we can make appropriate adjustments.

Secondly, we learn that God raises leaders for different ministry work phases. Leaders must collaborate, not be overtaken by a spirit of tribalism, and see each other as a threat. A good leader understands that he or she builds on the success of previous leaders. Everyone must learn that we are not in the ministry to compete and outdo each other but to coordinate and complete each other in God's plan.

Nehemiah 7 – Leadership and community engagement

Nehemiah 7:1-4 said that after completing the walls and installing the doors and gates, Jerusalem was well-protected by a defensive perimeter. Nehemiah then requested the porters, singers, and other Levites to oversee the gates and walls. He appointed his brother Hanani and Hananiah, the military governor of the fortress near the temple, as the rulers of Jerusalem.

Nehemiah instructed these men to open the city gates only after sunrise and to close them while the sun was still up. However, while Jerusalem was spacious, the population was small, and houses had not been built.

Nehemiah inspired by God gathered the nobles, officials, and people for a genealogical enrolment. He probably planned to repopulate Jerusalem. His vision was to bring people from the surrounding cities and towns, strengthening the city's defenses against potential enemy attacks. Hence, he needed to know the headcounts.  

Nehemiah found the book containing the genealogy of the first arrivals who had come years earlier. It was a record of the returnees who had migrated to Judah from Babylon under the guidance of Zerubbabel and Joshua. Nehemiah's attention to detail was evident as he utilized this old record to establish a new one, preserving the original for future use. Nehemiah 7: 6-73 then detailed the long list of returnees by family and clans.  

Like the situation Nehemiah faced, manpower for ministry is also in great need in the church today. To mitigate the situation, we need God-inspired leadership. We need leaders like Nehemiah with deep foresight and great organizational skills. Could God be speaking and tugging at your heart, urging you to step up to our call and be equipped to strengthen the ministry in the church?   

 

Nehemiah 6:10-14 - Be courageous and discerning

Nehemiah 6:10-14 illustrates the deception of Sanballat and Tobiah. They hired Shemaiah, a false prophet, to try and trick Nehemiah into thinking that his enemies were planning to kill him at night and to seek refuge in the temple's inner sanctuary.

Being a godly man, Nehemiah detected that Shamaiah was a false prophet hired by Sanballat and Tobiah to advise him to act cowardly. This gutless act would have tarnished Nehemiah's reputation and brought disgrace upon him.

Despite their efforts to ruin his reputation, Nehemiah remained unwavering in his faith, and their scheme came to naught. Wisely, verse 14 says Nehemiah sought God again, asking Him to remember Tobiah and Sanballat for their wicked plots. He also asked God to remember the prophetess Noadiah and all the other prophets who had tried to intimidate him. Here, Nehemiah acted inspiringly amid the challenges he encountered.

Despite the efforts of spies and traitors planted in Jerusalem by their enemies, Nehemiah was able to lead the completion of the wall. After 52 days of tireless work, the wall was finished on the 25th day of the 6th month. When their enemies and the surrounding people learned of the completed walls, they lost confidence, realizing that this accomplishment was with God's help and not merely the work of humans.

At this time, Nehemiah was saddened because many of the nobles of Judah were in alliance with Tobiah through marriage. The Jewish nobles exchanged many letters with Tobiah. Verse 19 says that they praised Tobiah in Nehemiah's presence and reported Nehemiah's deeds to Tobiah. This led Tobiah to send an intimidating letter to Nehemiah.

The key lesson from Nehemiah 6:10-14 is the importance of discernment and remaining steadfast in one's faith in the face of deception and opposition. Despite having to face deceit and intimidation, one should stay true to one’s beliefs, seek God's guidance, and display unwavering strength and determination. Learn the value of discerning the true motives of others, maintaining faith amid adversity, and seeking divine guidance in overcoming challenges.

Nehemiah 6:1-9 - Staying determined and focused

As the construction of the wall approached completion, Nehemiah’s enemies realized their only chance of defeating him was by eliminating Nehemiah himself. Sanballat and Geshem dispatched messengers to invite Nehemiah to a meeting in one of the villages in the plain of Ono, intending to harm him.

However, Nehemiah, displaying wisdom and determination, declined their invitations. He stated that he was fully dedicated to building the wall and saw no reason to interrupt his work for a meeting with these men. Despite their persistent requests, Nehemiah consistently refused to entertain their invitations, showing his unwavering commitment to his mission.

Unable to deceive Nehemiah into meeting him, Sanballat turned to a smear campaign. He sent his servant with an open letter in his hand, claiming that the Jews were building the wall to rebel against the king of Persia and make Nehemiah their king. They even accused Nehemiah of appointing prophets to proclaim himself the new king of Judah.

Although Sanballat tried to intimidate him, Nehemiah stood firm and boldly refuted the accusations, exposing Sanballat’s deceit. Nehemiah’s fearless reaction showcased his unwavering determination in challenging situations.

Nehemiah demonstrated unwavering determination, remarkable courage, and strategic thinking. He recognized the enemy’s intent to instill fear and weaken the Jews.  In response, he prayed for God’s strength, showing his reliance on God in the face of adversity.

These verses teach us to nurture unwavering determination and courage as we strategically consider how to face opposition. The key is to focus on the mission and rely on God. He stays by our side in any mission He has assigned us. Take heart, for we are always assisted in our God-assigned mission.  

Nehemiah 5 – Dealing with exploitation

Nehemiah narrates another challenging issue he faced concerning the growing tension between the wealthy and the poorer Jews. Nehemiah 5:1-5 narrates how those Jews facing financial hardship borrowed money from the rich Jews to purchase food and pay their land taxes to the Persian government.

Captured by greed, the wealthy exploited this situation by imposing exorbitant interest rates. When the poor were unable to repay the loans, the wealthy seized their land as payment and, in some cases, even took their children as slaves. The situation worsened when a famine struck the land.

As the wall was being rebuilt, the workers’ plight became increasingly dire. They were not just struggling to earn a living, but the impoverished saw no escape. In their desperation, they turned to Nehemiah for assistance, highlighting the severity of their situation and the urgent need for his leadership.

When Nehemiah became aware of the wealthy individuals’ unscrupulous behavior, he contemplated the issue before confronting the nobles and rulers. They had devised a plan to sell Jews off as slaves to foreigners, fully aware that Nehemiah intended for the state to buy back these individuals. Invoking the fear of God, Nehemiah ordered the wealthy to return any people or property they had unlawfully taken and to eliminate all interest on loans.  

Verses 14-19 beautifully illustrate Nehemiah's selflessness. Throughout his twelve-year tenure as governor, Nehemiah's leadership was marked by his refusal to claim benefits to which he was entitled, a decision made to prevent adding burdens on the people. His selflessness was further evident when he used his funds to provide meals for his employees and guests, a gesture that continues to inspire leaders today and should be admired by all.  

Injustice and exploitation within the fellowship should be dealt with. Besides confronting those who exploit and take advantage of the disadvantage, a good leader will also value and practice selfless leadership. 

Nehemiah 4:9-23 – Effective Leadership

Ezra 4:9-23 vividly portrays Nehemiah’s proactive leadership. Faced with impending challenges, he took decisive action. The disheartened leaders of Judah reported to Nehemiah the workers’ exhaustion and the daunting task of finishing the walls amidst a sea of rubbish. Simultaneously, the adversaries of the Jews were plotting a surprise attack. Nehemiah, informed of the impending attacks, swiftly organized guards to protect the workers and their families.

Besides providing guards for the workers, Nehemiah also played the role of a motivator. He encouraged the people, dispelling their fear by reminding them of the support of the great Lord. Inspiringly, he told them “Do not be afraid of them; remember the Lord who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your houses.”

When their adversaries realized their plans were no longer a secret, they abandoned the idea of a surprise attack, allowing the Jews to concentrate on completing the wall. Nehemiah’s servants diligently labored. They worked tirelessly on the wall, with half always standing watch, each one carrying a sword for protection, while the other half diligently worked,

Nehemiah's meticulous strategic planning was evident as he further instructed that in the event of an attack, a trumpet would be blown to signal for immediate assistance from workers in other sections. Furthermore, he required the workers to remain in Jerusalem at night, prepared to defend the city during the day.

The workers showed unwavering commitment throughout their demanding tasks by not changing their clothes except for washing. This was a sign of their complete focus on the monumental construction project.

This passage shows us some effective leadership skills. A leader must be proactive in the face of challenges and take swift action. He or she must also be a good motivator to dispel the fear. One critical factor to any success in motivation is to help people to know and recognize God and rely on His strength. These verses offer lessons on proactive leadership, effective communication, strategic planning, and unwavering commitment that are relevant to our personal and professional lives.

 

Nehemiah 4:1-8 – Perseverance, unity and trust

Nehemiah 4:1-8 describes the initial mockery Nehemiah, and the Jews had to endure and overcome in rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem. It started with Sanballat. When he heard that the wall was being built, he became furious. In front of his brethren and the army of Samaria, he mocked and ridiculed the Jews. He was heard saying, “What are these feeble Jews doing? By making great sacrifices, can they revive the stones out of the heaps of burned rubbish and rebuild the walls in one day?”

However, Sanballat was not alone in the mockery. Verse 3 said that Tobiah the Ammonite, who was standing nearby, also sarcastically added, saying “even a fox walking on the wall would break down the wall being built by the Jews”

Upon hearing Sanballat and Tobiah’s mocking remarks, Nehemiah did the right thing. He turned and prayed, seeking God’s intervention. His prayer was not just a plea for justice, but also a source of comfort and reassurance. He asked God to turn their reproach back upon the opponents and to make them plunder in a foreign land. He also prayed that God would not forgive their sin, as they insulted God before the builders.

United by a common goal and driven by sheer determination, the people worked tirelessly, and the construction progressed rapidly. Soon, the wall stood at half its intended height. This significant progress was noticed. The inhabitants of the neighboring provinces of Judah, led by Sanballat and Tobiah, were filled with rage after learning about the progress of Jerusalem’s fortified walls. In response, they conspired to launch a coordinated physical assault on Jerusalem, hoping to disrupt the progress.

These verses teach us the need to persevere in adversity to progress in our journey with God. Just as we rejoiced in all God-given blessed moments, we must endure and persevere through the hardship of challenging times.  If we need persevering wisdom, prayer is our best tool. God is always available. Secondly, we need to unite in the face of opposition. We can achieve our goal better when we unite. Unity is not just a strategy but a source of empowerment and connection. It always helps to garner determination and collaboration. Be resilient and united to progress with God.  

 

 

Nehemiah 3 – Collaborate to achieve

Nehemiah 3 provides an account of the construction of the walls of Jerusalem. It includes detailed information about the different sections of the wall and the individuals responsible for building each section.

The account indicates that the construction involved a collaborative effort. Those who volunteered included skilled laborers, religious leaders, craftsmen, government officials, merchants, and young women. This diverse group, each with their unique skills and perspectives, committed their time, skills, and resources to the construction efforts, demonstrating their unwavering commitment and sacrifice.  This inspiring display of unity and diversity in the community is truly remarkable.

Approximately fifty groups and individuals were involved. This chapter shows that the priests and Levites, as religious leaders, took on significant responsibilities, bearing the weight of their roles with dedication.

The construction project, as detailed in this chapter, was a feat of meticulous organization. Workers were strategically deployed to different areas throughout the city, ensuring the entire wall was completed precisely and efficiently, leaving no room for error. This level of precision and planning is truly impressive.

Verses 17-21 describe the Levites, a group of religious leaders, taking on the task of repairing the section near the high priest’s residence. Verses 22-32 show that the priests and residents of Jerusalem were responsible for sections of the wall closest to their homes. People from other regions came together to work on the remaining sections.

From this chapter, we learn that unity in any God-given project plays a key role. When members with diverse backgrounds and unique skills unite, there is no telling what we can accomplish. Secondly, to succeed in any project, we need commitment and Sacrifice. Everyone involved must be willing to commit and sacrifice to fulfill the goal. Thirdly, everyone's responsibility and dedication to doing their part are also important. Each member has to take ownership of the task assigned. We can achieve any monumental task when the church members collaborate and responsibly commit to our God-given vision.

Nehemiah 2:11-20 – To be successful, thorough preparation is required

Nehemiah knew that the monumental task of rebuilding the broken-down wall would require immense courage. Some might have doubted its feasibility, yet before unveiling his plans, he, with unwavering determination, conducted a secret survey of the wall’s condition. Nehemiah meticulously examined every aspect of the structure.

This courageous act gave him a clear understanding of the enormity of the task and the exact materials required for the reconstruction. This thorough survey laid the essential groundwork for successfully executing the ambitious project.

Nehemiah’s first-hand knowledge and recounting how he believed God had precisely orchestrated every event that led to his return became a compelling testimony of God’s guidance.

Meanwhile, verses 19-20 describe those who came to oppose what Nehemiah and the people he had motivated intended to do. Apart from Sanballat and Tobiah, there came a third person named Geshem, an Arab. These came mocking and despising Nehemiah and the people’s attempt to rebuild the wall.    

However, Nehemiah’s testimony of God’s intervention persuaded the people to undertake the daunting challenge of rebuilding the walls. They were encouraged to press on despite the opposition they faced.

Nehemiah 2:11-16 demonstrates the importance of thorough preparation in understanding the scope of a task before undertaking it. Like Nehemiah’s meticulous survey of the wall’s condition, careful planning and attention to detail allow us to gather crucial information, laying the groundwork for the successful execution of a project. This reassures us of the value of such preparation in achieving our ambitious goals.

As we plan and face daunting challenges or opposition, we must remember to remain connected to God and open to His guidance. His support and strength will enable us to move forward with conviction, even in the face of adversity.

Nehemiah 2:5-10 – Taking proactive steps to deal with challenges

Following his short prayer to God, Nehemiah asked the king for permission to send him back to Judah and rebuild Jerusalem. In the presence of his queen, the king permitted Nehemiah and inquired how long he would be away. The king then allowed him to be away for a definite period.  

Anticipating potential obstacles, Nehemiah wisely requested a letter to ensure a smooth journey. He foresaw potential hindrances and took proactive steps to address them.  He also requested another letter to Asaph, the keeper of the king’s forest, granting him the ability to obtain timber to build the temple and fortress of Jerusalem. Nehemiah attributed his success to God’s favor working on his behalf.

With enthusiasm, Nehemiah must have crossed the river and presented the king's letters to the governors of the provinces who provided him with armed escorts. As he had anticipated, troubles were beginning to brew. The audience, no doubt, was eagerly awaiting Nehemiah's triumph over these obstacles. When Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite men heard of Nehemiah's welfare for Jerusalem and her people, they were displeased that someone should seek the welfare of the Jews.  

Sanballat’s origins can be traced to the Moabites and Tobiah’s, the Ammonites. Both were descendants of Lot, born from his incestuous relationship with his two daughters. The Moabites and the Ammonites were Israel's long-time opponents. Here they were at it again. As we progress in the book, we shall see how they create troubles hindering Nehemiah's mission from its progress.   

It is important to have foresight and proactive planning. Nehemiah demonstrated wisdom by anticipating challenges and taking proactive steps to address them. This highlights for us the importance of being prepared and looking ahead to identify and mitigate potential hindrances in any endeavor. Here we also learn the significance of relying on God’s favor and seeking assistance when faced with difficulties. Like Nehemiah, we must learn to trust God every step of the way in life.

 

Nehemiah 2:1-4 – Every prayer answered is a divine coincidence

Nehemiah’s concern for the situations back home in Jerusalem was apparent. He must have been grief-stricken thinking about them. And as providence would have it, the king noticed it. The king’s interest was not a coincidence. It was undoubtedly a response to Nehemiah’s prayer. Serving the king with a sad countenance was not just risky; it was dangerous. It could incur royal displeasure, leading to grave consequences. Yet, Nehemiah was willing to take this risk, showing his deep commitment to his people and faith.  

It is crucial to recognize that every response to prayer is a divine intervention. The king’s notice of Nehemiah’s sad countenance and subsequent inquiry presented the perfect opportunity for Nehemiah to express his sorrow and tactfully seek permission to restore Jerusalem. All these unfolded in the 12th year of Artaxerxes’ reign while Nehemiah was in the king’s service, demonstrating the power of prayer and divine timing.  

Nehemiah’s commitment to Jerusalem was unwavering. He could have resigned to pessimism and left it to chance. However, his intense concern for his people and the situation back home generated a deep desire to be God’s instrument and play his part in restoring Jerusalem. After all, Jerusalem was the place God had set apart to make His dwelling and name known. Nehemiah’s mission to restore it was of utmost significance.   

Verse 4 reveals the king’s initiative in inviting Nehemiah to state his needs for the task. At this moment, Nehemiah turned to God in prayer before responding. This act underscores the truth that prayer is the most powerful tool for accessing divine wisdom in an instant. Nehemiah’s prayer was not just a formality but a sincere plea for guidance, and his response to the king directly resulted from this divine wisdom. As demonstrated in his response, Nehemiah’s reliance on God is a powerful example.

Nehemiah’s experience teaches us the power of faith and commitment. His unwavering faith in God and his deep commitment to his people and their welfare led him to take significant risks to fulfill the mission of restoring Jerusalem. His story reminds us that when we are driven by a strong sense of purpose and guided by faith, we can overcome obstacles and make a meaningful impact, even in seemingly impossible situations. Like him, we must remain steadfast in our beliefs and trust God as we pursue the mandate He had entrusted to us.

Nehemiah 1:4-11 – The importance of prayer

When Nehemiah heard of the distressing situation of the returnees and the condition in Jerusalem, the first thing he did was to turn to God. He identified sin as the root cause of their trouble. Identifying with the people, Nehemiah humbly confessed, repented, wept, fasted, and prayed for the people. As Nehemiah interceded for the people, he identified with them in their failings.  

How Nehemiah approached God in prayer shows the critical elements of a genuine and effective prayer. In prayer, he acknowledged the centrality of God in their lives. Nehemiah recognized God as “the Lord God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who preserves the covenant and lovingkindness for those who love Him and keep His commandments.”

Secondly, Nehemiah identified sin and disobedience as the contributing factors to their problem. They had departed from the instructions laid down by God through Moses concerning the consequences of disobedience. Despite God’s explicit instruction, they chose to walk contrary to His ways. Thirdly, Nehemiah knew that repentance and returning to the way of obedience was God’s prescription for an aligned relationship with God.

Verses 10-11 show us the attitude and desire Nehemiah adopted as he approached God. He reminded God that they were still His chosen people before he asked God to grant him favor, hear his prayer, and grant him success in what he intends to undertake. In saying that he was the king’s cupbearer, Nehemiah asked God to grant him favor with Artaxerxes, whom he served.  

Every life experience we encounter reflects the state of our relationship with God, whether we recognize it or not. Prayer is a divine tool that helps us nurture this relationship. Our sensitivity to His leading determines our ability to turn to Him in prayer. The more we draw near to Him, the more accurately we can identify how to align with Him.  

We learn the importance of acknowledging God’s centrality in our lives, identifying areas of sin and disobedience, and seeking repentance and obedience from Nehemiah’s approach to prayer. Nehemiah’s prayer also demonstrates to us the significance of identifying with others in their failings and approaching God with humility, acknowledging our need for His favor and guidance. Finally, Nehemiah’s example teaches us that prayer is a vital tool for nurturing our relationship with God and seeking alignment with His will.