Dave's Diary

Daily Readings: Nehemiah 1 and Psalm 13

The events of the Book of Nehemiah begin about 15 years after the events of the Book of Ezra and about 100 years after the first exiles returned to Jerusalem from Babylon. Having prioritised the rebuilding of the Temple, they had not yet rebuilt the city walls of Jerusalem, and the city was very vulnerable. They were in great trouble and great disgrace, and when news of this reached the Emperor’s Jewish cupbearer named Nehemiah, he immediately felt the conviction of the Holy Spirit. He knew he needed to do something about it, so he took the most important first step a believer can ever take when faced by an overwhelming need – he fasted and prayed wholeheartedly (1:4).

As all the events of the Book of Nehemiah unfold we should not forget that this is where it all began. All the authority, power, influence and leadership that Nehemiah displayed in the later chapters can be traced back to this season of fervent fasting and prayer. When faced with the “great disgrace” of his people and the City he cared about deeply, he chose not to take the easy path of self-righteous judgment and gossip. He did not call a meeting, appoint a committee or draw up an action plan. He turned to God in desperation, and he prayed with all his heart for four whole months (Nehemiah 1:1 and 2:1).

Heavenly Father, forgive me for the many times I have not allowed myself to be moved in the least by the situations that are close to Your heart. Equally, please forgive me for the times I have been moved, but have immediately started to do something in my own understanding and strength, without first seeking Your will and Your way. Father forgive me. With fear and trembling I choose to ask You to stir my heart and to use me however You should choose. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.