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.