Nehemiah 4:4-6
Hear, O our God, for we are despised; turn their reproach on their own heads, and give them as plunder to a land of captivity! Do not cover their iniquity, and do not let their sin be blotted out from before You; for they have provoked You to anger before the builders. So we built the wall, and the entire wall was joined together up to half its height, for the people had a mind to work.
The challenge of preaching is presenting the word of the Lord in a comprehensive manner; free of personal opinion, biased narrative, or unrelated context. The challenge of hearing the word of the Lord is surrendering to its application and authority. Neither the preacher or listener are free from responsibility. So, today as we review these few verses from the ancient writings of Nehemiah, we do so seeking to uncover a very present directive from the Lord. While the events happened centuries ago, the message is fresh and relevant.
But first, let’s debunk some of the unsubstantiated claims regarding the wall of Nehemiah. If you listen to folklore you might be under the impression that Nehemiah was some master builder, contractor or developer. Folk have written songs, created plays and created hundreds of stories attributing him with grand building prowess. But as you read his personal testimony, he attributes the success of rebuilding the gates and walls of the city to a bunch of skilled, talented and dedicated people. He declares, for the people had a mind to work. He doesn’t once mention that he personally hammered or crafted any part of the project. He was there, but not necessarily as a tradesman.
So it begs the question, ‘what did Nehemiah do’? What exactly was his contribution? Professionally, Nehemiah was a cup bearer for the king. So there’s no reason to believe he was capable, knowledgeable or powerful enough to pull off a feat as spectacular as repairing the walls of Jerusalem. But while his position didn’t necessitate a construction background or building expertise, it directly placed him in the presence and favor of the king. And oftentimes favor is more important than skillfulness. Nehemiah had the one thing needed to see that the work got done. He had a mind to serve the Lord.
I can’t overstate the significance of having a God governed mindset. Nehemiah heard of the plight of his people. He cried for them. He fasted on their behalf. He prayed for direction. And he acted. Can you imagine the outcome of our cities, towns, countries and continents if each of us acted like Nehemiah? Is there nothing you see broken that warrants your attention? Is there nothing that brings tears to your eyes? Is there nothing that causes you to want to go to God in prayer and fasting? Things change when we all have a mind to serve the Lord.
Nehemiah used his political influence and valued relationship with the king to be a blessing to his people. But nothing would have transpired had it not been for the good people that caught hold of this vision and pitched in with expertise he didn’t have. And even if he did, the job was way too big for him to accomplish alone. So he did the work he was best at. He kept the haters away with savvy moves and wise decisions. He secured supplies, lumber and other materials for those working in construction. And he did one more significant job. He stayed connected to the prophet Ezra to ensure the word and will of the Lord was being instituted throughout the process. And yes, there were setbacks, enemies, haters and traitors. But, ultimately, the walls were rebuilt.
I mentioned at the top of this sermon the necessity of contextual presentation; and in full disclosure we read that Nehemiah’s expected outcome of a renewed faithful and true Israel did not materialize as he had imagined. But while his account of events may leave us feeling somewhat unsatisfied, it’s present significance is beyond expression. From both a physical and spiritual perspective, we see the urgency of action in our day and time. We literally see lives lost here at home and all across the world. If we have an ounce of humanity we cry for the condition of the world today. Not only do we cry, but the Spirit has urged us to join together to pray and to fast for guidance and direction.
Dear Children of God, I maintain and testify that our King has given us unmerited favor and unprecedented favor. The entire earth is looking to the Church to see what our response is going to be to the conditions of this world today. They want to know is our God god, or is there another. They want to know are we going to have a mind to work or just sit there. I’m ready to get started. What about you? When? What are you doing tomorrow?
God Bless
