Nehemiah 3

ScriptureNehemiah 3:17¹⁷ Next to him, the repairs were made by the Levites under Rehum son of Bani. Beside him, Hashabiah, ruler of half the district of Keilah,carried out repairs for his district.¹⁸ Next to him…¹⁹ Next to him…²⁰ Next to him…²¹ Next to him…Observation - What does it say?This entire chapter lists the massive amount of people whom God compelled through Nehemiah to join in rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem and it's gates. The thousands of feet worth of wall to be rebuilt were divided among all the people to make the job manageable.Understanding - What does it mean?God supplies everything necessary to accomplish his will.Notice God’s hand in each step:

1. He stirred in Nehemiah a desire to rebuild.
2. He gave Nehemiah favor with his leadership (the king) to rebuild.
3. He gave Nehemiah favor with the men he was asking to help rebuild.

Philippians 2:13 NLT “For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.”God not only gives us the desire to do what pleases him, but the power to do it! He supplies all we need – discipline, strength, resources, support, etc. He changes hearts, gives us favor, and provides direction us to accomplish his will. Ultimately, God is the one doing the heavy lifting.

It’s wasn’t Nehemiah’s eloquent request that caused the king to be pleased to grant it. Nehemiah said, “Because the gracious hand of my God was on me, the king granted my requests.” (Neh 3:8).

Life ApplicationFirst of all, I am reminded not to take myself too seriously. My responsibility isn’t to make something happen, but rather to simply lean into what God is asking of me.Second, I am encouraged that God’s clearly communicated will for us to “multiply Christ-followers everywhere” is something that he will bring about.As long as we are surrendered to God and obedient to him, he will supply everything necessary for us to accomplish his will!

God, we put our trust in you today! Thank you that you don’t set us up for failure. Praise you for supplying all we need to successfully carry out your will for our lives. Please show us any ways we haven’t been surrendered to you or areas we’ve been disobedient. Move upon our hearts as you moved upon Nehemiah’s! In Jesus’ name, amen.

 

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- Levi Thompson