Reconstruction: A Study in NehemiahSample

What does it say?

Nehemiah received permission from Artaxerxes, the Persian king, to go to and rebuild Jerusalem. He surveyed the walls before asking the officials for help.

What does it mean?

Nehemiah still carried the burden of Jerusalem four months after he first prayed about the condition of the city and his countrymen. God had been at work, orchestrating the exact moment for this conversation with Artaxerxes. During long months of prayer, God had placed a desire in Nehemiah’s heart to rebuild Jerusalem’s wall. He then answered Nehemiah’s prayer by giving him favor with the king, who agreed to provide supplies to help Nehemiah’s dream come to fruition. After arriving in Jerusalem, Nehemiah cast his God-given vision to those who could help it come about.

How should I respond?

God-given plans and provision are the results of diligently seeking Him in prayer. How often do you prayerfully look for guidance in God’s Word? The purpose of a God-given desire is to bring Him glory. When you are sure of what God wants you to do, you can also be certain He will provide what you need to do it. Consider keeping a devotional journal to record how God directs you through Scripture. Then, jot down a prayer and watch for God’s timing. Just as He provided for Nehemiah, the Lord is also “able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think” (Eph. 3:2