Nehemiah Chapter 2
Please read: Nehemiah 2 –
When Nehemiah heard about the condition of the walls and the gates of Jerusalem, he knew that he needed to do something about it. He had been visibly upset when he had heard the news knowing that Jerusalem lay vulnerable to attacks of outside enemies. When Nehemiah talked to God in prayer about his concern about Jerusalem, God put it in his heart that he would be the one to go and to rebuild the walls and gates. God often does that; He gives purpose to those who see clearly the need for something in His Kingdom.
There was only one obstacle in the way, the king of Persia. Nehemiah had a position of service to the king. He was the king’s cupbearer. He was going to have to ask the king’s permission to leave his service. I love that in the midst of telling the king what was on his heart, he silently prayed to God to help him be brave and to say all that he needed to say to the king. Here in this chapter lies proof that the God of the universe hears our silent prayers just as He hears our prayers spoken out loud.
Let's Reflect
1. When Nehemiah served wine to the king what did the king notice about Nehemiah?
2. This notice of his demeanor gave Nehemiah opportunity to talk to the king. Who was present in the room as well?
3. The king immediately knew that Nehemiah wanted to ask a favor of the king. What was his initial request to the king?
4. Nehemiah was given a positive answer, one which he might not have expected quite so readily. But with this positive response Nehemiah asked for a couple more favors of the king. What were his requests?
5. According to verse 8, what did Nehemiah say was the reason the king had granted him his requests?
6. What favor did the king also extend to Nehemiah that he had not asked for?
7. Nehemiah’s mission was not without opposition. There were those who did not want to see Jerusalem strengthened and did not want to see it become the powerful city it once was. What does the Bible say these men did when the rebuilding started?
8. Being accused of going against the king of Persia, Nehemiah boldly spoke up in full recognition of orders he was following that superseded the authority of the king. Who was Nehemiah referring to?
“Your sigh is able to move the heart of Jehovah. Your whisper can incline His ear to you. Your prayer can stay His hand, and your faith can move His arm. Do not think that God sits on high taking no account of you.” [Charles Spurgeon]
