Nehemiah 1:5-11
The story of Nehemiah’s call to do a task for God, began when his friend returned with others, from Judah. Nehemiah when speaking with his friend, first concern was for those who escaped and survived captivity in Jerusalem. His friends response saddened him for the people were suffering and their life was difficult mainly because the Jerusalem wall, that protected them and symbolized strength of their god’s was in poor condition, however the people were more concerned that the poor condition of the wall reflected badly on the name of God, How faithful it is to look at something of God’s that is in poor condition and think that it gives God a bad name. Nehemiah was to the point of distraught when he listened to his friend’s response, that he sat down and wept. Jesus wept over the city of Jerusalem because He knew of their future judgement for rejecting Him (Luke 19:41). Getting back to Nehemiah, Nehemiah went into mourning, fasting, and praying to God. Jesus also prayed (Mark 1:35; Luke 5:16; John 17:1) however, I am going to share Nehemiah’s prayer in case you did not read it, Nehemiah’s prayer.
“Lord, the God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments, let your ear be attentive and your eyes open to hear the prayer your servant is praying before you day and night for your servants, the people of Israel. I confess the sins we Israelites, including myself and my father’s family, have committed against you. We have acted very wickedly toward you. We have not obeyed the commands, decrees and laws you gave your servant Moses. Remember the instruction you gave your servant Moses, saying, ‘If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the nations, but if you return to me and obey my commands, then even if your exiled people are at the farthest horizon, I will gather them from there and bring them to the place I have chosen as a dwelling for my Name. They are your servants and your people, whom you redeemed by your great strength and your mighty hand. Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man.” Believers God loves His faithful people and has a plan for their future (Jeremiah 29:11).
Prayer
Father may we take heed to your words and lessons in the Bible for rebuilding and restoring what we see that is broken and gives You a bad name and bring healing to the land as we await Your future plans. Amen
Wind Gust 