Read Nehemiah 2:11-20
Can you imagine gathering all of the people together who are returning to Jerusalem with you and saying absolutely nothing about the plan God put on your heart? That was a long journey to have not confided in someone, recruiting people to help you in your mission.
Apparently, Nehemiah had his reasons. And now in the opening scene of this passage we see him sneaking around! At least he took a select few with him. I don’t know why I was surprised by the piles of rubble still blocking the way. The city had been destroyed 70+ years ago, and there had already been returnees in Jerusalem for years by the time Nehemiah showed up to finish securing the city with a wall.
Nehemiah must have gotten a good idea that night for what needed to be done. His mission was still a “go,” and now it was time to let the officials know so the work could begin. It didn’t take long for Nehemiah to cast his vision so that the officials were on board. I have to think God had something to do with their openness.
There were several foreign officials that weren’t so pleased. I wonder what their agenda was. Maybe it was simply jealousy that the king was allowing something in their region, and they liked it better when Jerusalem was just a pile of rubble.
No matter the negative feedback, Nehemiah’s faith didn’t waver. He said, “The God of heaven will help us succeed. We, his servants, will start rebuilding this wall. But you have no share, legal right, or historic claim in Jerusalem.” Nehemiah was giving God the glory and credit for the success that was yet to come.
How do you handle it when your faith is tested, or people question your motives? My answer to that has changed dramatically since moving to Mexico. By spending time in God’s word and reflecting on his promises daily, my faith has strengthened, and I have less fear in sharing about Jesus with others. I suppose I put myself out there every day in each blog post I write.
If people aren’t questioning your motives, maybe you haven’t taken a bold stance to rely on the truth of God’s word. It’s hard to rely on something unfamiliar. Spending time getting to know God through Scripture has made my life so much fuller. I look forward to each new message from the Holy Spirit to affirm my choices and light my path.
Let’s pray … Lord, thank you for your love and mercy, even when I stumble. Continue to nurture my faith as I spend time with you in your Word. Please forgive me for all those things I have done that are displeasing to you. I turn to you now and ask that you fill me afresh with your Spirit. Use me to reflect your love to others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
