God always has a man for the hour of great need. Nehemiah was that man for the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem. He was called to the task by God. Later God gave him further work-that of Governor of Jerusalem. The city of Jerusalem had been without walls for approximately 160 years. God had led the Jews back to the city from Babylon. The people had built their own homes, but had not touched the walls. This was a reproach on God's name. The enemies could say, 'Yes, their God brought them back, but he couldn't do any more for them'. God called Nehemiah to take the leadership in this tremendous task and the Holy Spirit has included the story in the Bible as a helpful lesson for us. 1 Corinthians 10:6 tells us that these Old Testament stories were written not only as history, but as an example, as teaching for us today. The opening verses of this chapter tell of how Nehemiah learned about the condition of the city of Jerusalem. He was over in Susa, near Babylon, at the time. His call to the work came out of a knowledge of the need and a burden concerning it. Nehemiah realized the purpose of God was that the walls should be rebuilt. This is what changed his whole life. Do we really understand God's purpose for all men-that they might be saved? If so, what has it done to our lives, our prayers, our giving? The story of Nehemiah will have a lot to say to us along this line as we read it together. A PRAYER: 'Lord, help me to see the world of lost men through your eyes. ' |
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