-
Nehemiah
Just a few years after Ezra returned to reform the spiritual condition of the Jews, Nehemiah would return to rebuild the walls of the city itself (c. 444-425 B.C.). Together, Ezra and Nehemiah would help restore the spiritual and political state of the Jews.
Nehemiah was a cupbearer to the king of Persia (not a lowly position!). He had heard that the walls of Jerusalem were still unrepaired, and this troubled him greatly. As he stood before the king, the king noticed his sadness, and asked what the problem was. Nehemiah prayed to God first, then told the king. The king, Arexerxes, granted Nehemiah leave to go to Jerusalem and oversee the work of rebuilding the walls of the city. In fact, Nehemiah would be governor of the area for a time.
Nehemiah arrived in Jerusalem and saw what was needed. It would be a formidable task, but with God’s help, and the willingness of the people to work, they could accomplish the job. They set their minds to the work.
They received much opposition. People from the outlying areas would ridicule, mock, and threaten. But Nehemiah kept right on with his work, refusing to let anyone else stop what he was there to accomplish. He told his detractors: “The God of heaven will give us success; therefore we His servants will arise and build, but you have no portion, right or memorial in Jerusalem” (2:20). It was this mindsight that the people indeed were successful. They finished their work in an astounding 52 days!
Of all the great characteristics of Nehemiah, perhaps the most notable is the fact that he was a man of prayer. His faith in God played a vital role in his accomplishments. That’s a lesson we all need to learn.
Discussion
1. Why was Nehemiah upset over the news about Jerusalem?
2. What position did he occupy? Why would this have been such an important position?
3. What kind of a man was Nehemiah? List some of the characteristics you see in him.
4. Suggestion: go through and find the places where Nehemiah prayed. Discuss these prayers and how they can help you.