Nehemiah 2: A Divine Plan Unfolds
And it came to pass in the month Nisan, in the twentieth year of Artaxerxes the king, that wine was before him: and I took up the wine, and gave it unto the king. Now I had not been beforetime sad in his presence.
Wherefore the king said unto me, Why is thy countenance sad, seeing thou art not sick? this is nothing else but sorrow of heart. Then I was very sore afraid,
And said unto the king, Let the king live for ever: why should not my countenance be sad, when the city, the place of my fathers’ sepulchres, lieth waste, and the gates thereof are consumed with fire?
Then the king said unto me, For what dost thou make request? So I prayed to the God of heaven.
And I said unto the king, If it please the king, and if thy servant have found favour in thy sight, that thou wouldest send me unto Judah, unto the city of my fathers’ sepulchres, that I may build it.
And the king said unto me, (the queen also sitting by him,) For how long shall thy journey be? and when wilt thou return? So it pleased the king to send me; and I set him a time.
Moreover I said unto the king, If it please the king, let letters be given me to the governors beyond the river, that they may convey me over till I come into Judah;
And a letter unto Asaph the keeper of the king’s forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the palace which appertained to the house, and for the wall of the city, and for the house that I shall enter into. And the king granted me, according to the good hand of my God upon me.
Then I came to the governors beyond the river, and gave them the king’s letters. Now the king had sent captains of the army and horsemen with me.
When Sanballat the Horonite, and Tobiah the servant, the Ammonite, heard of it, it grieved them exceedingly that there was come a man to seek the welfare of the children of Israel.
So I came to Jerusalem, and was there three days.
And I arose in the night, I and some few men with me; neither told I any man what my God had put in my heart to do at Jerusalem: neither was there any beast with me, save the beast that I rode upon.
And I went out by night by the gate of the valley, even before the dragon well, and to the dung port, and viewed the walls of Jerusalem, which were broken down, and the gates thereof were consumed with fire.
Then I went on to the gate of the fountain, and to the king’s pool: but there was no place for the beast that was under me to pass.
Then went I up in the night by the brook, and viewed the wall, and turned back, and entered by the gate of the valley, and so returned.
And the rulers knew not whither I went, or what I did; neither had I as yet told it to the Jews, nor to the priests, nor to the nobles, nor to the rulers, nor to the rest that did the work.
Then said I unto them, Ye see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire: come, and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach.
Then I told them of the hand of my God which was good upon me; as also the king’s words that he had spoken unto me. And they said, Let us rise up and build. So they strengthened their hands for this good work.
But when Sanballat the Horonite, and Tobiah the servant, the Ammonite, and Geshem the Arabian, heard it, they laughed us to scorn, and despised us, and said, What is this thing that ye do? will ye rebel against the king?
Then answered I them, and said unto them, The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build: but ye have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem.
Nehemiah 2 marks a pivotal moment in the narrative, showcasing not only Nehemiah's unwavering faith and strategic planning but also God's providential orchestration of events. This chapter reveals how God prepares the way for His people, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. It offers profound insights into leadership, prayer, and the importance of recognizing God's hand in our lives. Let's delve into the details.
From Sadness to Opportunity (Nehemiah 2:1-3)
Nehemiah's role as cupbearer placed him in close proximity to King Artaxerxes, requiring him to maintain a cheerful disposition. However, the burden of his people's suffering weighed heavily on him, and his sorrow became evident. Nehemiah 2:2 tells us the king noticed Nehemiah's sadness. This seemingly precarious situation, where Nehemiah risked the king's displeasure, became an opportunity. It's a reminder that even in moments of fear and vulnerability, God can work.
Nehemiah's honest and respectful response to the king's inquiry is crucial. He voiced his concern for Jerusalem, the city of his ancestors, which lay in ruins (Nehemiah 2:3). Notice how Nehemiah, with wisdom, avoids directly mentioning that Jerusalem was a political hot spot. He wisely frames the issue as a personal matter, sidestepping potential political complications. This shrewdness demonstrates that faith and wisdom can coexist, and that careful planning is often necessary when pursuing God's will.
Prayer and Divine Intervention (Nehemiah 2:4)
The king's question, "What is it you want?" (Nehemiah 2:4) presented Nehemiah with a critical opportunity. Before answering, Nehemiah offered a silent prayer to the God of heaven. This brief but powerful act underscores the importance of seeking God's guidance in every situation. He recognized that he was dealing with two kings: the earthly King Artaxerxes and the King of Kings.
This verse offers a powerful lesson: when faced with challenges, we must remember to bring the King to bear on the situation. Worldly authorities have power, but ultimately, God's authority is supreme. He is able to influence even the most powerful leaders to accomplish His purposes. Romans 13:1-7 reminds us that government is meant to be God’s servant. But unless God’s people are influencing government with divine standards, it won’t know which way to go.
God's Favor and the King's Decision (Nehemiah 2:5-8)
Nehemiah's request to be sent to Judah to rebuild the city, along with his request for letters of passage and timber, was met with favor. Nehemiah 2:5-6 states that the king agreed to send him. The presence of "the queen" (Nehemiah 2:6) suggests a favorable environment. Perhaps her presence added a touch of sensitivity to the situation.
The phrase, "it pleased the king to send me," (Nehemiah 2:5) hints at a deeper dynamic. King Artaxerxes may have seen strategic value in having a trusted official in Jerusalem, especially given the political unrest in the region at the time. Proverbs 21:1 says, “A king’s heart is like channeled water in the LORD’s hand: He directs it wherever he chooses.” God was working behind the scenes, orchestrating events to align with His plan.
Nehemiah's thorough planning is evident in his specific requests for letters of passage and timber (Nehemiah 2:7-8). This highlights the importance of preparation and diligence in pursuing God's calling. However, the ultimate success was not due to Nehemiah's planning alone, but to "the gracious hand of my God upon me" (Nehemiah 2:8). We are called to work alongside God (2 Corinthians 6:1), recognizing that every good thing we accomplish is ultimately a gift from Him (James 1:17).
Opposition Arises (Nehemiah 2:9-10)
As Nehemiah journeyed to Jerusalem, he encountered opposition from Sanballat and Tobiah, who were "greatly displeased that someone had come to promote the welfare of the Israelites" (Nehemiah 2:10). This opposition serves as a reminder that whenever we seek to do God's will, we can expect to face resistance. Satan has an agenda, but we must remember that "our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against . . . evil" (Ephesians 6:12).
Assessing the Damage (Nehemiah 2:11-16)
Upon arriving in Jerusalem, Nehemiah undertook a careful and discreet inspection of the city walls (Nehemiah 2:11-15). This highlights the importance of understanding the scope of the challenge before attempting to address it. Nehemiah's quiet assessment demonstrates a commitment to thoroughness and a willingness to confront the reality of the situation.
Inspiring Action (Nehemiah 2:17-18)
After his inspection, Nehemiah rallied the people, sharing his vision for rebuilding the wall and restoring the city's honor. He said, "Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace" (Nehemiah 2:17). His words inspired hope and motivated the people to action. The people responded positively, saying, "Let us start rebuilding" (Nehemiah 2:18).
Renewed Opposition (Nehemiah 2:19-20)
The opposition resurfaced in the form of mockery and accusations from Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem (Nehemiah 2:19). They questioned Nehemiah's motives and accused him of rebelling against the king. However, Nehemiah remained steadfast, declaring, "The God of heaven will give us success. We his servants will start rebuilding, but as for you, you have no share in Jerusalem or any claim or historic right to it" (Nehemiah 2:20). He appealed to a higher source for his vindication: the God of the heavens.
Nehemiah's response demonstrates his unwavering faith and his understanding that the work he was undertaking was ultimately for God's glory. He refused to be intimidated by his opponents, trusting in God's provision and protection.
Nehemiah 2 is a powerful testament to the importance of prayer, planning, and perseverance in pursuing God's will. It reminds us that God is sovereign and that He can use even the most unlikely circumstances to accomplish His purposes. Despite opposition, Nehemiah trusted in God's gracious hand, inspiring others to join him in rebuilding Jerusalem and restoring hope to his people.
And it came to pass in the month Nisan, in the twentieth year of Artaxerxes the king, that wine was before him: and I took up the wine, and gave it unto the king. Now I had not been beforetime sad in his presence.
Wherefore the king said unto me, Why is thy countenance sad, seeing thou art not sick? this is nothing else but sorrow of heart. Then I was very sore afraid,
And said unto the king, Let the king live for ever: why should not my countenance be sad, when the city, the place of my fathers’ sepulchres, lieth waste, and the gates thereof are consumed with fire?
Then the king said unto me, For what dost thou make request? So I prayed to the God of heaven.
And I said unto the king, If it please the king, and if thy servant have found favour in thy sight, that thou wouldest send me unto Judah, unto the city of my fathers’ sepulchres, that I may build it.
And the king said unto me, (the queen also sitting by him,) For how long shall thy journey be? and when wilt thou return? So it pleased the king to send me; and I set him a time.
Moreover I said unto the king, If it please the king, let letters be given me to the governors beyond the river, that they may convey me over till I come into Judah;
And a letter unto Asaph the keeper of the king’s forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the palace which appertained to the house, and for the wall of the city, and for the house that I shall enter into. And the king granted me, according to the good hand of my God upon me.
Then I came to the governors beyond the river, and gave them the king’s letters. Now the king had sent captains of the army and horsemen with me.
When Sanballat the Horonite, and Tobiah the servant, the Ammonite, heard of it, it grieved them exceedingly that there was come a man to seek the welfare of the children of Israel.
So I came to Jerusalem, and was there three days.
And I arose in the night, I and some few men with me; neither told I any man what my God had put in my heart to do at Jerusalem: neither was there any beast with me, save the beast that I rode upon.
And I went out by night by the gate of the valley, even before the dragon well, and to the dung port, and viewed the walls of Jerusalem, which were broken down, and the gates thereof were consumed with fire.
Then I went on to the gate of the fountain, and to the king’s pool: but there was no place for the beast that was under me to pass.
Then went I up in the night by the brook, and viewed the wall, and turned back, and entered by the gate of the valley, and so returned.
And the rulers knew not whither I went, or what I did; neither had I as yet told it to the Jews, nor to the priests, nor to the nobles, nor to the rulers, nor to the rest that did the work.
Then said I unto them, Ye see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire: come, and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach.
Then I told them of the hand of my God which was good upon me; as also the king’s words that he had spoken unto me. And they said, Let us rise up and build. So they strengthened their hands for this good work.
But when Sanballat the Horonite, and Tobiah the servant, the Ammonite, and Geshem the Arabian, heard it, they laughed us to scorn, and despised us, and said, What is this thing that ye do? will ye rebel against the king?
Then answered I them, and said unto them, The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build: but ye have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem.
Nehemiah 2 marks a pivotal moment in the narrative, showcasing not only Nehemiah's unwavering faith and strategic planning but also God's providential orchestration of events. This chapter reveals how God prepares the way for His people, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. It offers profound insights into leadership, prayer, and the importance of recognizing God's hand in our lives. Let's delve into the details.
From Sadness to Opportunity (Nehemiah 2:1-3)
Nehemiah's role as cupbearer placed him in close proximity to King Artaxerxes, requiring him to maintain a cheerful disposition. However, the burden of his people's suffering weighed heavily on him, and his sorrow became evident. Nehemiah 2:2 tells us the king noticed Nehemiah's sadness. This seemingly precarious situation, where Nehemiah risked the king's displeasure, became an opportunity. It's a reminder that even in moments of fear and vulnerability, God can work.
Nehemiah's honest and respectful response to the king's inquiry is crucial. He voiced his concern for Jerusalem, the city of his ancestors, which lay in ruins (Nehemiah 2:3). Notice how Nehemiah, with wisdom, avoids directly mentioning that Jerusalem was a political hot spot. He wisely frames the issue as a personal matter, sidestepping potential political complications. This shrewdness demonstrates that faith and wisdom can coexist, and that careful planning is often necessary when pursuing God's will.
Prayer and Divine Intervention (Nehemiah 2:4)
The king's question, "What is it you want?" (Nehemiah 2:4) presented Nehemiah with a critical opportunity. Before answering, Nehemiah offered a silent prayer to the God of heaven. This brief but powerful act underscores the importance of seeking God's guidance in every situation. He recognized that he was dealing with two kings: the earthly King Artaxerxes and the King of Kings.
This verse offers a powerful lesson: when faced with challenges, we must remember to bring the King to bear on the situation. Worldly authorities have power, but ultimately, God's authority is supreme. He is able to influence even the most powerful leaders to accomplish His purposes. Romans 13:1-7 reminds us that government is meant to be God’s servant. But unless God’s people are influencing government with divine standards, it won’t know which way to go.
God's Favor and the King's Decision (Nehemiah 2:5-8)
Nehemiah's request to be sent to Judah to rebuild the city, along with his request for letters of passage and timber, was met with favor. Nehemiah 2:5-6 states that the king agreed to send him. The presence of "the queen" (Nehemiah 2:6) suggests a favorable environment. Perhaps her presence added a touch of sensitivity to the situation.
The phrase, "it pleased the king to send me," (Nehemiah 2:5) hints at a deeper dynamic. King Artaxerxes may have seen strategic value in having a trusted official in Jerusalem, especially given the political unrest in the region at the time. Proverbs 21:1 says, “A king’s heart is like channeled water in the LORD’s hand: He directs it wherever he chooses.” God was working behind the scenes, orchestrating events to align with His plan.
Nehemiah's thorough planning is evident in his specific requests for letters of passage and timber (Nehemiah 2:7-8). This highlights the importance of preparation and diligence in pursuing God's calling. However, the ultimate success was not due to Nehemiah's planning alone, but to "the gracious hand of my God upon me" (Nehemiah 2:8). We are called to work alongside God (2 Corinthians 6:1), recognizing that every good thing we accomplish is ultimately a gift from Him (James 1:17).
Opposition Arises (Nehemiah 2:9-10)
As Nehemiah journeyed to Jerusalem, he encountered opposition from Sanballat and Tobiah, who were "greatly displeased that someone had come to promote the welfare of the Israelites" (Nehemiah 2:10). This opposition serves as a reminder that whenever we seek to do God's will, we can expect to face resistance. Satan has an agenda, but we must remember that "our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against . . . evil" (Ephesians 6:12).
Assessing the Damage (Nehemiah 2:11-16)
Upon arriving in Jerusalem, Nehemiah undertook a careful and discreet inspection of the city walls (Nehemiah 2:11-15). This highlights the importance of understanding the scope of the challenge before attempting to address it. Nehemiah's quiet assessment demonstrates a commitment to thoroughness and a willingness to confront the reality of the situation.
Inspiring Action (Nehemiah 2:17-18)
After his inspection, Nehemiah rallied the people, sharing his vision for rebuilding the wall and restoring the city's honor. He said, "Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace" (Nehemiah 2:17). His words inspired hope and motivated the people to action. The people responded positively, saying, "Let us start rebuilding" (Nehemiah 2:18).
Renewed Opposition (Nehemiah 2:19-20)
The opposition resurfaced in the form of mockery and accusations from Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem (Nehemiah 2:19). They questioned Nehemiah's motives and accused him of rebelling against the king. However, Nehemiah remained steadfast, declaring, "The God of heaven will give us success. We his servants will start rebuilding, but as for you, you have no share in Jerusalem or any claim or historic right to it" (Nehemiah 2:20). He appealed to a higher source for his vindication: the God of the heavens.
Nehemiah's response demonstrates his unwavering faith and his understanding that the work he was undertaking was ultimately for God's glory. He refused to be intimidated by his opponents, trusting in God's provision and protection.
Nehemiah 2 is a powerful testament to the importance of prayer, planning, and perseverance in pursuing God's will. It reminds us that God is sovereign and that He can use even the most unlikely circumstances to accomplish His purposes. Despite opposition, Nehemiah trusted in God's gracious hand, inspiring others to join him in rebuilding Jerusalem and restoring hope to his people.