Daily Bread for May 24, Neh 1-3

Today’s readings are Neh 1-3.

Nehemiah followed Ezra in returning to Jerusalem. He led a third wave of returning Jewish exiles who were sent by Artaxerxes in 445 B.C. This era of Jewish history is commonly known as the post-exilic period. It begins when Cyrus sends the first wave of people back in 538 B.C. While Ezra focuses on the rebuilding/re-establishing of the religious practices of the Jews, Nehemiah details the governmental/political/physical restoration.

In Neh 1:1-11 Nehemiah hears of the sad state of Jerusalem and prays for God to help him restore the city. One significant aspect of his prayer is that he confesses his personal shortcomings as well as those of his countrymen (Neh 1:6-7). Praying for forgiveness for the sins of your country is noble. It is humbling to include yourself in that prayer. Watch what God does with Nehemiah’s transparency and humility!

King Artaxerxes sees Nehemiah's despondent visage and grants him extraordinary privileges, protection, and provision to return to Jerusalem and begin work (Neh 2:1-8). This is a common theme in the post-exilic era. The Jews have lost everything, including their homeland. God uses pagan nations and pagan kings, not only to send His people back to the land He gave them, but also to finance the reconstruction of the city and the temple.

Nehemiah clandestinely inspects the walls then reveals the nature of his visit to the local leaders who are unanimously supportive (Neh 2:11-19). Sanballat, who may be governor of Samaria, and Tobiah, another Samaritan, and an Ammonite are not happy (Neh 2:10; 18-20). Their presence and opposition will be a factor in how difficult Nehemiah’s job will be.

In Neh 3:1-32, work begins. Nearly everyone joins in. The walls are repaired and, in some areas, expanded. The size of the workforce, which comes from all over Judah, and its organization is a testimony to Nehemiah’s God-given capability to lead and his calling is affirmed.

Furthermore, we see the remnant of Israel united and working together. Albeit a much smaller nation, God has supernaturally reformed them and given them direction and purpose.