Recently the Lord directed me to read Nehemiah again. It begins with Nehemiah hearing “The survivors who are left from the captivity in the province are there in great distress and reproach (shame, disgrace). The wall of Jerusalem is also broken down, and its gates are burned with fire.” Nehemiah1:3
I am amazed how Nehemiah shows us the journey of rebuilding through key encounters and strategies that started with one person who was convicted in his heart of the distressed that was within the city. “So it was, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned for many days; I was fasting and praying before the God of heaven.” (1:4)
The depths of insight we see in the book of Nehemiah encourages us that with God all things are possible to bring restoration to the hearts and lives of the people, if we would co-labour with Him. It has hidden within the text keys that will help us understand how to proceed when it comes to rebuilding a church, city, town, group of people, business or a nation; we must look below the surface to truly understand what God is revealing and unfolding to us in His word.
Through a series of events and conversations, Nehemiah set out with the king’s approval and resources to begin rebuilding and restoring the wall and gates of Jerusalem.
As Nehemiah began to put into action what God had placed on his heart, there required much wisdom and insight to be able to do the task at hand. In the dark of night, he went out to view the state of the wall, accompanied with men who could be trusted, seeing firsthand what resources would be required. Then advising the people what was going on and how they were going to proceed to fix the wall.
“Then I said to them, “You see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lies waste, and its gates are burned with fire. Come and let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we may no longer be a reproach.” And I told them of the hand of my God which had been good upon me, and also of the king’s words that he had spoken to me. So they said, “Let us rise up and build.” Then they set their hands to this good work.” (2:17-18)
Added to all of this was the opposition trying to instil fear into the people. They mocked, discouraged, threaten and lied to prevent them from participating. All these things took place, yet through it all there was something greater that caused the people to be stirred up, and that was Nehemiah’s trust in knowing God was with them and He will make a way.
So, what can we learn from all of this:
- Never underestimate the courage and boldness of one person surrendered to God, who can draw a few trusted friends to begin the work, and see it through to completion.
- There is a heart attitude required that will cause us to stay focus and do what’s in front of us no matter what.
- A whole new level of worship and prayer will be required to strengthen and sustain us. The enemy uses people to bring confusion and disruption therefore continuous prayer is a must as people begin to press in more and put their hand to the task. “Now it happened, when Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabs, the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites heard that the walls of Jerusalem were being restored and the gaps were beginning to be closed, that they became very angry, and all of them conspired together to come and attack Jerusalem and create confusion. Nevertheless, we made our prayer to our God, and because of them we set a watch against them day and night.” (4:7-9)
- Wisdom and discernment are required, as well as being watchful. “Therefore I position men behind the lower parts of the wall, at the openings; and I set the people according to their families, with their swords, their spears, and their bows.” (4:13)
- As people begin to see the evidence of the work done, a momentum will begin where more will be willing to be a part of the restoration. This will not require any effort on anyone’s part but simply as they hear and see what others are doing and have done, is enough to motivate, inspire and birth a desire to join in.
- Encouragement is required as the people do the work. Coming together and celebrating as a body is so important on the journey. It brings life and strength as the daily tasks take their toll; we must encourage one another. “The work is great and extensive, and we are separated far from one another on the wall. Wherever you hear the sound of the trumpet, rally to us there. Our God will fight for us.” (4:19-20)
- This is generational so it impacts everyone both present and in the future. To advance a Kingdom includes the practical tasks of life as well as seeing an eternal destiny, therefore we need to be reminded why we are doing this. “And I looked, and arose and said to the nobles, to the leaders, and to the rest of the people, “Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, great and awesome, and fight for your brethren, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your houses.” (4:14)
- Clothed in the armour of God, an increase in power and authority is evident. Prayers will shape the atmosphere with the Word of God. Miracles, signs and wonders will increase, and God will shield us as we move forward in establishing His Kingdom in the very place we live, work and do our business.
- Last but not least there is the coming back to the word, which brings conviction, repentance, alignment, prosperity and freedom to those who hear and respond. “So Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly of men and women and all who could hear with understanding on the first day of the seventh month. Then he read from it in the open square that was in front of the Water Gate from morning until midday, before the men and women and those who could understand; and the ears of all the people were attentive to the Book of the Law.” (8:2-3)
Without a doubt God is speaking to us through the book of Nehemiah. It shows us that we can accomplish more when each one of us does our part. We need to rally together and realise that we have all we need to overcome, restore and rebuild that which is broken, for we have the King’s favour and resources, we have His Holy Spirit. Nehemiah was able to stir the people up into action and the wall was restored within 52 days (6:15). It will require us to be diligent and committed to see this through, knowing that God is with us, He is for us and with Him it’s all possible.
