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Nehemiah: Rebuilding and Renewing Faith
The book of Nehemiah is an inspiring story of faith, perseverance, and leadership. It tells how Nehemiah, a faithful servant of God, led the people of Jerusalem to rebuild the city walls after they were destroyed. This story isn't just about construction; it’s about renewing faith, overcoming opposition, and uniting a community under God’s guidance. Below, we’ve divided the book into natural sections with titles, overviews, and insights to help us understand its powerful message.
1. "Nehemiah’s Burden: A Call to Action" (Nehemiah 1-2)
Read: Nehemiah 1-2
Overview:
The book of Nehemiah begins with a poignant account of the prophet's deep sorrow upon hearing of the deplorable state of Jerusalem. News reaches Nehemiah while he serves as cupbearer to the Persian King Artaxerxes, revealing that the city walls lie in ruins, its gates burned, and the people of Judah suffer greatly. This distressing news deeply affects Nehemiah, leading him to a period of fasting, prayer, and confession of the sins of the Israelites, including his own.
Driven by a strong sense of duty and compassion, Nehemiah seeks the king's favor to undertake the arduous task of rebuilding Jerusalem. He presents his request to the king, honestly explaining the dire situation and expressing his desire to return to his homeland to help his people. Surprisingly, King Artaxerxes grants Nehemiah's request, appointing him governor of Judah and providing him with necessary resources, including timber and letters of safe passage.
With the king's approval, Nehemiah embarks on his journey to Jerusalem. Upon arriving, he secretly inspects the damaged walls, assessing the extent of the destruction and devising a plan for their restoration. He then gathers the people of Judah, sharing his vision and inspiring them to join him in the monumental task ahead. Despite facing opposition and challenges, Nehemiah's unwavering faith and leadership galvanize the community, setting the stage for the remarkable rebuilding project that unfolds in the following chapters.
In essence, Nehemiah 1-2 establishes the foundation for the entire narrative. It introduces the protagonist, highlights his deep concern for his people, and showcases his unwavering faith and determination in seeking God's guidance and the king's favor. These chapters emphasize the importance of prayer, leadership, and community unity in overcoming adversity and achieving significant goals.
Surprising Information:
The most striking part of this section is Nehemiah’s reliance on prayer. Before he speaks to the king, Nehemiah offers a quick, silent prayer. This shows how closely he depends on God in every situation. Another surprising detail is that Nehemiah, a mere servant in a foreign land, takes on such a massive mission. It reminds us that God often calls ordinary people to do extraordinary things.
Lead-in Questions:
Have you ever felt a strong desire to fix something that was broken?
What burdens on your heart have led you to pray?
Think
about this:
Nehemiah’s
story begins with his deep sadness for the broken walls of Jerusalem.
His sorrow led him to pray and seek God’s help. How does prayer
guide your decisions and actions?
Bringing
it up-to-date:
Nehemiah’s
willingness to act reminds us that God often uses ordinary people to
do extraordinary things. Are there areas in your community where God
might be calling you to take action?
Devotional Thought:
Nehemiah was on a mission to help his people, and he knew he had to ask forgiveness for the people's sins if the mission was going to succeed. Before praying for God's guidance and protection, he asked for God's forgiveness. He knew why God's people had been sent into captivity. He understood why things were not going right after they had returned. There was unconfessed sin that had created a barrier between God and the people and had kept them from experiencing God's blessings.
As Nehemiah prayed, he also included himself. The people's sins were his sins. He could have simply pointed his finger and blamed others. It was tempting to look back and list the sins of past generations.
For us, it's also tempting to point to the sins of believers who have gone before us. But when we talk about repenting, we need to include ourselves. True repentance involves all of us--individuals and churches.
God's great faithfulness gives us the courage to face our sins. There's the sin of silence when we should have spoken; there's the sin of speaking when we should have kept quiet. There's the sin of not extending grace to people who were desperate for a glimpse of it. There's the sin of pursuing our own agenda instead of serving God and trying to do his will.
We need to ask God to bring us to repentance. — Arthur J. Schoonveld
Take-Home
Thought:
God
can use your burden for a broken situation to bring about healing and
restoration if you trust Him and take the first step.
2. "Rebuilding Together: A Community at Work" (Nehemiah 3-4)
Read: Nehemiah 3-4
Overview:
The people of Jerusalem come together to rebuild the wall, each family taking responsibility for a section. However, not everyone is happy about their progress. Enemies like Sanballat and Tobiah mock and threaten them. Despite this opposition, the people stay focused and determined, with Nehemiah leading them in prayer and preparation. They even work with one hand holding a tool and the other holding a weapon, ready to defend themselves.
Nehemiah 3 provides a detailed and fascinating account of the individuals and families who participated in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. It reads like a roll call, meticulously listing the names of priests, Levites, and ordinary citizens who each contributed to the project. This chapter highlights the communal effort and the diverse involvement of the people in this monumental undertaking.
The meticulous record of who worked where on the wall serves several purposes. It demonstrates the widespread support and participation of the community, emphasizing the collective responsibility and the importance of unity in achieving a common goal. Furthermore, it likely served as a historical record, preserving the names and contributions of those who played a vital role in the restoration of Jerusalem.
However, the rebuilding efforts did not go unopposed. Nehemiah 4 describes the relentless opposition faced by the builders from their enemies, including Sanballat the Horonite, Tobiah the Ammonite, and Geshem the Arab. These adversaries mocked and ridiculed the Israelites, attempting to intimidate and discourage them from their work. They employed various tactics, including threats, slander, and even attempts to sabotage the construction.
Despite these formidable challenges, Nehemiah and the people of Judah remained steadfast in their commitment. They implemented innovative strategies to protect themselves, such as assigning workers to labor with one hand while holding a weapon in the other. They also relied on God's protection, acknowledging His divine guidance and strength in overcoming the opposition.
In conclusion, Nehemiah 3-4 vividly portrays the challenges and triumphs associated with the rebuilding project. These chapters underscore the importance of community involvement, perseverance in the face of adversity, and the crucial role of God's guidance in achieving seemingly insurmountable goals.
Surprising Information:
What stands out is how God’s people work as a team, with each person contributing in their way. Even priests, merchants, and goldsmiths help with construction! This unity contrasts sharply with the enemies’ attempts to create fear and division. Nehemiah’s leadership shows us how prayer and action go hand in hand when facing challenges.
Lead-in Questions:
Have you ever been part of a group project where everyone had a role?
Why do you think teamwork is so important in accomplishing big tasks?
Think
about this:
The
people of Jerusalem worked side by side to rebuild the city walls.
Each person’s efforts contributed to the greater good. How does
working together strengthen a community?
Bringing
it up-to-date:
In
our churches and communities, everyone has a part to play. When we
work together in unity, we can accomplish amazing things for God’s
glory.
Devotional Thought:
Israel’s opponents mounted a fierce campaign against them. Sanballat and his friends tried to bully God’s people to stop the work of rebuilding. They ridiculed the people and threatened violence. And the people reacted in a very normal way. Their emotional strength began to falter. Tension began to rise as exhaustion set in and the fear of attack surfaced. How would Nehemiah handle this situation?
With their enemies breathing down their necks, Nehemiah encouraged the people to keep up the work. He prayed for God’s protection. With hands lifted to heaven, he prayed, “Hear us, our God, for we are despised. Turn their insults back on their own heads.” In addition to prayer, he stationed people as guards. If an attack was evident, they were ready to fight. Nehemiah’s words and wisdom provided solace and strength to the people. He spoke into the tension by saying, “Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes.”
Tension is a gift if we seize it as an opportunity to strengthen our faith in the Lord, who is strong and mighty. Jesus never ran away from tension. He embraced it as a gift that can be used to become courageous in the midst of fear. We don’t seek out tension, but it may be a gift we really need.
Take-Home
Thought:
God
calls His people to work together, using their unique skills and
gifts to rebuild and restore.
3. "Justice and Generosity: Restoring the People" (Nehemiah 5-6)
Read: Nehemiah 5-6
Overview:
Nehemiah 5-6 delves into significant social and political challenges faced by Nehemiah during the rebuilding of Jerusalem. In chapter 5, Nehemiah confronts a severe social injustice: the wealthy Israelites were exploiting their poorer brethren by demanding exorbitant interest rates on loans and seizing their land as collateral. This exploitation caused widespread suffering and threatened to undermine the unity and stability of the community.
Moved by compassion and a deep sense of justice, Nehemiah publicly rebukes the wealthy, reminding them of their moral obligations to their fellow Israelites. He calls for a return to the principles of justice and compassion outlined in the Law of Moses, urging them to forgive the debts and return the land to its rightful owners. This powerful address highlights Nehemiah's commitment to social justice and his unwavering dedication to the welfare of the entire community.
While grappling with internal strife, Nehemiah also faced persistent opposition from external enemies. Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem continued their attempts to disrupt the rebuilding project, employing cunning tactics and deceitful schemes. They attempted to lure Nehemiah into a trap, hoping to discredit him and undermine his authority. However, Nehemiah, guided by wisdom and discernment, skillfully navigated these treacherous waters, exposing their deceitful plans and maintaining his focus on the completion of the wall.
Despite facing numerous obstacles, both internal and external, Nehemiah persevered in his leadership, demonstrating remarkable courage, integrity, and commitment to the well-being of his people. His actions in Nehemiah 5-6 serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of social justice, the dangers of unchecked greed, and the need for strong and principled leadership in overcoming adversity.
Surprising Information:
It’s surprising to see that opposition wasn’t just from outside; internal conflicts also threatened progress. Nehemiah’s courage in standing up for justice teaches us that spiritual renewal isn’t just about physical rebuilding but also about restoring relationships. The speed of the wall’s completion, despite all the challenges, highlights God’s blessing over their efforts.
Lead-in Questions:
Have you ever seen someone take advantage of others in need?
What does generosity look like in your life?
Think
about this:
Nehemiah
confronted injustice among his people and called for fairness and
generosity. How can we follow his example in our relationships and
communities?
Bringing
it up-to-date:
Standing
up for justice and practicing generosity are powerful ways to reflect
God’s love. How can we address the needs of those around us?
Devotional Thought:
In school, a friend tried to convince me to do something wrong against a person he did not like. I refused. So he asked someone else, who agreed to his shady suggestion.
Some people will go to great lengths to discredit or tarnish another person’s reputation. How can a person stay alert to such schemes?
Nehemiah knew when people were trying to trick him. His enemies tried again and again to stop the work of rebuilding God’s city. They even sent Nehemiah a false message about a rumor of revolt against the king, hoping he would fall for it. But Nehemiah was aware of their plot and wouldn’t take the bait. So the enemies tried a different tactic. They hired a prophet to try to trick him. But he prayed that the Lord would strengthen his hands and sharpen his mind, and he was able to resist. He said, “I realized that God had not sent [this prophet], but that … he had been hired to intimidate me.”
Jesus taught his disciples that he would be sending them out like sheep among wolves. He warned them to be “as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves”; he said, “Be on your guard” (Matthew 10:16-17). We also are called to be on high alert with people who wish to deter us from keeping our focus on serving God.— Reginald Smith
Take-Home
Thought:
God’s
people are called to act justly and love generously, even when it’s
difficult.
4. "Renewing Faith: The Power of God’s Word" (Nehemiah 7-8)
Read: Nehemiah 7-8
Overview:
Nehemiah 7 begins with a census of the people who returned to Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. This detailed list serves several purposes. It provides a historical record of the community, documenting the various families and their lineages. Additionally, it likely played a role in the re-establishment of social order and the distribution of resources within the restored city.
Following the census, Nehemiah 8 shifts the focus to a significant spiritual renewal. Ezra the scribe, a prominent leader and teacher, publicly reads the Law of Moses to the assembled people. This event marks a pivotal moment in the nation's history. The people, who had likely grown distant from God's commands during the exile, now hear the sacred text directly and are deeply moved by its profound truths.
The reading of the Law is followed by a period of intense spiritual reflection and repentance. The people acknowledge their past disobedience and express sincere sorrow for their sins. This leads to a renewed commitment to God's covenant and a desire to live according to His righteous standards. The atmosphere is one of deep spiritual awakening and a renewed sense of hope for the future.
Nehemiah 8 concludes with a joyous celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles. This ancient festival commemorates God's provision for the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings. The people construct temporary booths, symbolizing their dependence on God for shelter and sustenance. The celebration is marked by feasting, rejoicing, and heartfelt thanksgiving to God for His faithfulness and blessings. This joyous occasion signifies the spiritual and communal renewal that has taken place within the restored community of Jerusalem.
Surprising Information:
One surprising detail is how deeply the people are moved by hearing God’s Word. They hadn’t heard it in such a long time, and its power brings both conviction and joy. Another powerful moment is when Nehemiah encourages the people, saying, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” This reminds us that true strength comes from trusting in God’s promises.
Lead-in Questions:
Have you ever felt renewed or inspired by reading the Bible?
Why do you think God’s Word has such an impact on people?
Think
about this:
When
Ezra read the Law to the people, they were moved to tears and
worship. God’s Word has the power to convict, encourage, and renew
our faith.
Bringing
it up-to-date:
Studying
the Bible together helps us understand God’s will and strengthens
our faith. How can we make God’s Word a bigger part of our daily
lives?
Devotional Thought:
The news media churn out stories on all kinds of people doing bad things. Politicians are accused of taking bribes and hiring prostitutes. Priests are suspected of abusing children. Are there any people of integrity any more? What does a person of integrity look like?
Nehemiah knew some people that he could trust to do the right thing. He had observed Hananiah, for example, in his work as commander of the citadel. Nehemiah had seen Hananiah’s spiritual life in action, giving evidence of godly, discerning leadership and a heart willing to serve the Lord. Hananiah “feared God more than most people do.”
In other words, his everyday life showed great respect for God as his King. He accepted that he was small and God was sovereign over his life.
That’s what integrity looks like.
Jesus is our model of integrity. His life matched his character and being. Maybe that’s why people flocked to him; he was different from the teachers of the law and other religious leaders. Jesus was who he was, inside and out. Integrity, for Jesus, was to show what God was like—truth and grace wrapped into a human package.
Jesus wants us to be people of integrity. Does your inner life of patience, goodness, and self-control flow outward into deeds and words that bless others? Ask Jesus to fill your life with his holy character.— Reginald Smith
Take-Home
Thought:
God’s
Word has the power to renew hearts and transform lives when we listen
and respond.
5. "Confession and Covenant: A New Beginning" (Nehemiah 9-10)
Read: Nehemiah 9-10
Overview:
Nehemiah 9-10 focuses on a profound act of corporate repentance and covenant renewal. In chapter 9, the people of Judah gather for a day of fasting and confession. Levites, chosen to represent the community, deliver a moving historical address, recounting God's mighty acts of deliverance throughout Israel's history, from creation to the exile. This historical reflection serves as a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness and the people's repeated failures to keep their covenant with Him.
The people, deeply moved by this historical review, acknowledge their sins and transgressions with heartfelt sorrow. They confess their disobedience, idolatry, and rebellion against God's commands. This act of corporate confession is a significant step towards spiritual healing and restoration.
Building upon this act of repentance, Nehemiah 10 records a series of solemn covenants made by the people. They pledge to walk in God's ways, obey His laws, and uphold the principles of the Torah. These covenants cover various aspects of life, including Sabbath observance, tithing, and the support of the temple and its ministry. By entering into these renewed covenants, the people demonstrate their commitment to living in accordance with God's will and rebuilding not only the physical walls of Jerusalem but also their spiritual foundation.
These chapters emphasize the importance of historical remembrance, honest self-reflection, and sincere repentance in the life of faith. They highlight the ongoing need for covenant renewal and the crucial role of God's Word in guiding and transforming the lives of individuals and communities.
Surprising Information:
It’s surprising how honest the people are in their confession. They don’t make excuses but take full responsibility for their sins. This humility is a powerful example of repentance. The covenant they make shows their desire to start fresh and fully dedicate themselves to God, reminding us of the importance of renewing our commitment to Him.
Lead-in Questions:
Why is it important to confess our sins?
How can making promises to God shape our lives?
Think
about this:
The
people confessed their sins and made a covenant to follow God’s
ways. Confession brings healing, and commitment brings renewal.
Bringing
it up-to-date:
Just
like the Israelites, we need to regularly examine our lives and
commit to living according to God’s will. What commitments can you
make to grow closer to God?
Devotional Thought:
Eugene Peterson writes in his book Answering God, “God works with words. He uses them to make a story of salvation. He pulls us into the story. When we believe, we become willing participants in the plot… We can do this recklessly or robustly, throwing ourselves into relationships and actions. When we do this, we pray.”
Israel got pulled into the story of reconciliation by confessing their sins through prayer. But they had to prepare themselves to enter God’s arena.
First, Israel prepared an atmosphere of reconciliation. They gathered before the Lord, knowing that they and their ancestors had all blown it. Then they fasted, pushing out sinful desires and creating space for God. Next they remembered their holy identity and separated themselves from the practices of other nations. And they told God their story of sins through prayer. There was a cycle of reading the Law, confessing their sins, and worship.
In their prayers, they gave honor and praise to God alone. They remembered that salvation was God’s idea, not theirs. Their prayers returned them to the story of God, who kept his promise to make something out of them despite their sins.
Jesus is God’s idea too. We are invited into a story we did not write. Jesus wrote us into the book of life by his great love for us, ushering us into the big story of God’s mercy and grace. That’s the story you and I get to tell!— Reginald Smith
Take-Home
Thought:
Confessing
our sins and renewing our commitment to God helps us experience a
fresh start in Him.
6. "A City Restored: Dedication and Celebration" (Nehemiah 11-12)
Printable Download
Read: Nehemiah 11-12
Overview:
Nehemiah 11-12 describes the repopulation of Jerusalem and the ongoing efforts to restore the city's spiritual and communal life. Chapter 11 details the resettlement of various groups within Judah, with some families choosing to reside in Jerusalem while others inhabit surrounding towns. This decision-making process reflects the practical realities of life and the need for a balanced distribution of resources and responsibilities throughout the region.
Chapter 12 focuses on the establishment of the temple's worship services. It provides a detailed account of the priestly and Levitical divisions, outlining their roles in leading the worship, maintaining the temple, and teaching the Law. This chapter emphasizes the importance of proper worship and the ongoing need for spiritual instruction within the community.
The narrative culminates in a joyous celebration of the dedication of the newly rebuilt walls of Jerusalem. A large procession, consisting of priests, Levites, and the people, marches around the city walls, accompanied by music, singing, and joyful shouts of praise. This festive occasion signifies the completion of a monumental undertaking and marks a new era of hope and renewal for the people of Judah.
Nehemiah 11-12 paints a picture of a community striving to rebuild its life after years of exile and hardship. These chapters highlight the importance of community, cooperation, and faithful adherence to God's commands in restoring and sustaining a thriving society. They offer a powerful message of hope and encouragement for those facing challenges in their own lives and communities.
Surprising Information:
The detailed planning of the celebration shows how important it is to thank God for His blessings. The use of music and community worship highlights how joy and gratitude are central to faith. This chapter reminds us that every victory we experience is a reason to give glory to God.
Lead-in Questions:
Have you ever been part of a celebration for something important?
Why is it important to dedicate our accomplishments to God?
Think
about this:
The
people celebrated the completion of the walls with joy and
thanksgiving, dedicating their work to God. How does gratitude play a
role in your faith?
Bringing
it up-to-date:
Celebrations
and dedications remind us to give thanks to God for His blessings.
How can we make gratitude a daily habit?
Devotional Thought:
What do Carmel, Indiana; McKinney, Texas; and Eden Prairie, Minnesota, have in common? They were Forbes magazine’s top choices for the best places to live in 2012. They were picked because of low crime, great schools, and strong economies.
For the Jews, Jerusalem was the best place to live. There was no better location for a formerly exiled people to rebuild their lives than to take up residence near the house of God.
Only one family out of ten could live in Jerusalem. The goal was to live, work, and worship God’s way. Each of the family lines populated Jerusalem with the kind of people who centered everything on being God’s witnesses to the surrounding nations.
To live in Jerusalem was a great honor, but also a challenge. The people chosen were honored to lead the kind of life that brought glory to the Lord. They would treat each other with justice. They would regularly engage in sincere worship. But it would be a challenge to be faithful and not cut corners in work and worship. Still, Jerusalem’s residents accepted the honor and challenge to make God’s city the best place to live.
How do we attract people for God? We must take to heart Paul’s words: “Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). The best place to live is in the will of our only Savior.— Reginald Smith
Take-Home
Thought:
Dedicate
your work and accomplishments to God, remembering that all good
things come from Him.
7. "Faithful to the End: Nehemiah’s Final Reforms" (Nehemiah 13)
Read: Nehemiah 13
Overview:
Nehemiah 13 describes Nehemiah's return to Jerusalem after a period of absence. Upon his return, he finds that the people have sadly strayed from their commitment to God's laws. He encounters several serious issues that threaten the spiritual and moral well-being of the community.
One of the primary concerns is the continued influence of Tobiah the Ammonite, who had previously opposed the rebuilding of Jerusalem. Nehemiah discovers that Eliashib, the high priest, had provided Tobiah with a chamber within the temple courts, a grave act of compromise. Nehemiah swiftly addresses this issue, removing Tobiah's possessions from the temple and restoring its sanctity.
Another significant problem arises from intermarriage with foreigners. Nehemiah finds that some Israelites have married women from Ashdod, Ammon, and Moab, leading to the neglect of God's commands and the dilution of their spiritual heritage. He forcefully addresses this issue, rebuking those involved and emphasizing the importance of maintaining their distinct identity as God's chosen people.
Furthermore, Nehemiah addresses the neglect of Sabbath observance and the failure to support the Levites, who were responsible for teaching the Law. He takes decisive action to enforce Sabbath observance and ensure that the Levites receive the tithes and offerings they are entitled to.
In conclusion, Nehemiah 13 highlights the importance of consistent vigilance and resolute leadership in maintaining spiritual purity and upholding God's standards within the community. It serves as a powerful reminder that even after significant accomplishments, there is always a need for ongoing spiritual renewal and a steadfast commitment to God's Word.
Surprising Information:
It’s surprising to see how quickly the people forget their promises. This reminds us of the ongoing need to stay vigilant in our faith. Nehemiah’s boldness in correcting the people, even when it’s difficult, teaches us that true leadership involves accountability and a commitment to God’s truth.
Lead-in Questions:
Why is it important to finish well in the work God has given us?
What does faithfulness look like in your life?
Think
about this:
Nehemiah’s
final reforms show his commitment to keeping God’s people on the
right path. Faithfulness requires perseverance and trust in God.
Bringing
it up-to-date:
In
our lives, staying faithful to God means continually seeking His
guidance and obeying His Word. How can we remain faithful in our
daily walk?
Devotional Thought:
A young woman came to our church door, carrying a bag of her clothes. Her face was bruised. Her voice cracked with grief. She wanted out of an abusive relationship. We helped her into a shelter, and she began attending church. Her face healed; her spirit was no longer downcast. Her life seemed to be turning around. Suddenly she disappeared. After several months she showed up again, bruised and bleeding. She had gone back to her old boyfriend. Life was too hard without him, she said, even if he was bad. Old habits are hard to break.
Nehemiah had spent much time helping Israel restore its relationship with God. He endured many sleepless nights protecting the workers. He had rallied throngs of Jews who had wanted to give up. He had tirelessly promoted God’s law.
But it took only one man’s friendship with an old enemy to bring corruption back in. Nehemiah would have none of it. He kicked Tobiah out of his cozy room, cleaned it from top to bottom, and returned the things of God to their rightful place there. Nehemiah’s experiences in the past and his love for God’s people refused to give evil a foothold again.
When old sins resurface in our lives, we can’t allow them back in. We must submit to God, resisting the devil (James 4:7). We have a Savior who doesn’t treat us as our sins deserve but grants us grace and power for a new start of service to him.— Reginald Smith
Take-Home
Thought:
God
calls us to remain faithful to Him, trusting that He will guide us to
finish well
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