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Nehemiah 2

Good Morning “Followers of The Way Maker.”  Today we are in Nehemiah Chapter 2

We pick up in the month of Nisan.  Which means it’s been about 4 months since chapter 1.  Nehemiah was burdened and diligently seeking an answer from The Lord for 4 months… 1st lesson for us - don’t grow weary but be patient for Gods’ timing (Galatians 6:9).

In Vs 1 Nehemiah also states “Now I had not been sad in his presence.” Nehemiah‬ ‭2‬:‭1‬ ‭NASB1995‬‬. Under Persian law anyone who was sad in the kings presence could be put to death, so this is another important point.  Did Nehemiah now all of the sudden appear sad, or did he still appear happy.  His life depended on appearing happy so we would assume that.  So how does King Artaxerxes know he’s sad inside?

“So the king said to me, “Why is your face sad though you are not sick? This is nothing but sadness of heart.” Then I was very much afraid.” Nehemiah‬ ‭2‬:‭2‬ ‭NASB1995‬‬

Of course he was afraid, he was about to loose his head… potentially.  But how did the king know?  Perhaps he couldn’t hide his inner sadness any longer, and his countenance told on him?  Or perhaps more likely, since he had hidden his sadness for 4 months without problem - God was moving.  Another principle of Scripture: If God calls you to it, He WILL get you through it!  He makes a way where there is no way (Proverbs 3:5-6).

What follows is Nehemiahs bold, honest, faithful request.  Almost as if he recognizes God has begun to move - he states his case. Furthermore he asks for letters of protection and materials for reconstruction.  Is he “pushing his luck”?  It appears not, the king grants his request and even gives him officers / military support.  Crazy right?  Why would he do that?  Remember when I suggested God was moving? Check this… “And the king granted them to me because the good hand of my God was on me.”
‭‭Nehemiah‬ ‭2‬:‭8‬ ‭NASB1995‬

Nehemiah gets to work surveying the damage.  Pay particular attention to what he does and doesn’t do.  He appears to have little interest in inserting himself as a new leader.  His heart is for The Lord and His people.  He saw a need and was ready to be the solution.  The best leaders don’t need to make sure everyone knows they’re the leader… Their actions speak.

Love you all!  Dig in!