From Broken to Restored: The Book of NehemiahSample

Read: Nehemiah 2:9–20

SOAP: Nehemiah 2:18

Then I related to them how the good hand of my God was on me and what the king had said to me. Then they replied, “Let’s begin rebuilding right away!” So they readied themselves for this good project.

Into the Text

After receiving a blessing and permission from the king of Persia, Nehemiah set out for Jerusalem. He was not deterred from the work God had given him to do, even though the governors of the region, the enemies of Israel, were displeased. He continued planning and preparing for the work by inspecting the walls of Jerusalem in full. He knew he could not complete this work on his own, and he carefully and strategically invited people to join him on this project.

Nehemiah was convinced of God’s plan to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem and God’s calling on his life to lead the people in this work. As he had carefully planned and prepared before presenting his request to the king, Nehemiah carefully planned and prepared before presenting the work to the people.

Even in all the careful planning and preparation, Nehemiah recognized his dependence on God. He was so convinced of God’s promise to rebuild the wall that he was careful to walk faithfully and obediently in every step of the work. His attention to detail displays his faith.

The people of Jerusalem recognized God’s hand on Nehemiah and Nehemiah’s faithfulness to God’s command. Because of his diligence and patience, the people were excited and ready to work on the good project God had given them.

We have all been given a calling. The work of the gospel is before us. As followers of Christ, we are to take the gospel to the world and make disciples of all nations. We are working with God to rebuild the brokenness that is in the world because of sin. When we bring the gospel into dark places, when we share the truth of who Jesus is with others, we are engaging in this good project. The planning and preparation have already been done, and, like Nehemiah rallied the people, Jesus calls us to join Him in this important work. May we be faithful to ready ourselves and engage in this good work!