Nehemiah- Rebuilding and RenewalSample

Against all odds and expectations, the work of rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls and gates was completed in just fifty-two days- on the twenty-fifth day of Elul (6:15). As I write these words I look at my Hebrew calendar and realise that tomorrow is the twenty-fifth day of Elul! Our times are in God’s hands, and He has marked the seasons for His work to be accomplished.

Upon completion the first appointments are made in the form of gatekeepers, singers and Levites (7:1). This is significant. Gatekeepers keep watch and protect the comings and goings of God’s people, while singers and Levites set the spiritual culture of the new environment. Jerusalem is re-established- a city ‘large and spacious’ (v4), and Nehemiah moves to utilise both the newfound physical space, and commit it to the Lord’s purposes.

The rest of chapter 7 carries lists of names: again significant is the clear placement of priests, Levites, singers, gatekeepers and temple servants (v39-46), again highlighting the priority of consecrated worship to Yahweh in the new city.

God has done this great work. He has used the willingness of a man like Nehemiah, the favour of King Artaxerxes, and the contributions of the people, but it is God who said ‘It is time’, and took that was impossible for man and made it a reality. This is what God does.

And He looks for willing participants. At the close of this chapter, almost as a footnote we read of significant contributions to the work (v70-72). The governor, heads of families and ‘the rest of the people’ all gave generously to the work. When God has a project in mind, and it is time, He moves the hearts of men and women to give.

Extra Reading:

Look at the example of the building of the Tabernacle (Exodus 35:4-36:7): skills of individuals were gifted (35:10), the giving was based on the peoples’ willingness, and not coercion (35:21), generational mentoring and teaching took place (35:34), and so much was given that Moses had to ask the people to stop bringing their offerings! (36:6-7)

Or look at the time David prepared for the construction of the Temple. He understood God’s timing, that it was not for him to build, yet he helped prepare the people for the project (1 Chronicles 29:1-9). As the leader, David gave of his own resources, and called the leaders to follow suit. “Now, who is willing to consecrate himself today to the LORD?” (V5). We would not usually think of giving to a building project as a matter of consecration, but that’s exactly what it is. It is a surrendering of resources that might otherwise be spent on ourselves, and given to the work of God’s kingdom. It covers money, skills, time and devotion, and David is not shy in asking for it! Furthermore, David prays: “But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand."

Reflect:

What is in your hand that God is asking you to give to His work?

Spend some time and consecrate yourself today to the LORD. What is He saying? What will you do?