Nehemiah, a significant figure in the Old Testament, served as a cupbearer to King Artaxerxes of Persia. His story is one of leadership, faith, and perseverance, as he led the effort to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem and restore the community of Israel after their exile. The book of Nehemiah opens with a striking and emotional scene that sets the stage for the entire narrative.
In Nehemiah 1:2-3, we read about the news that Nehemiah received, which profoundly affected him and catalyzed his mission. The verses state:
"Hanani, one of my brothers, came from Judah with some other men, and I questioned them about the Jewish remnant that had survived the exile, and also about Jerusalem. They said to me, 'Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire.'" (Nehemiah 1:2-3, NIV)
This news was deeply troubling to Nehemiah for several reasons, each of which can be unpacked to understand the gravity of the situation and its implications for the Jewish people.
First and foremost, the physical state of Jerusalem was dire. The walls of the city were broken down, and its gates had been burned with fire. In ancient times, the walls of a city were crucial for its defense and security. Without walls, Jerusalem was vulnerable to attacks from surrounding enemies, leaving its inhabitants in a constant state of fear and insecurity. The destruction of the gates further symbolized a lack of control and protection, as gates were essential for regulating who could enter and leave the city.
The news of the broken walls and burned gates also carried a deeper, symbolic meaning. Jerusalem was not just any city; it was the holy city, the center of Jewish worship, and the location of the Temple, which was the dwelling place of God among His people. The state of the city was a reflection of the spiritual condition of the nation. The devastation of Jerusalem indicated that the people were still suffering the consequences of their disobedience and exile, and that the restoration of their relationship with God was incomplete.
Nehemiah's reaction to this news reveals his character and his deep concern for his people and their relationship with God. In Nehemiah 1:4, we read:
"When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven." (Nehemiah 1:4, NIV)
Nehemiah's response was one of profound grief and earnest prayer. His weeping and mourning show his empathy and compassion for his fellow Jews who were suffering. His fasting and praying indicate his reliance on God and his recognition that the solution to their plight was not merely physical but also spiritual. Nehemiah knew that the rebuilding of Jerusalem required divine intervention and guidance.
The news that Nehemiah received also highlighted the social and economic struggles of the Jewish remnant. The phrase "great trouble and disgrace" pointed to the hardships they faced, including poverty, oppression, and a lack of resources. The disgrace mentioned here was not just a matter of public shame but also a reflection of the broken covenant relationship with God. The people of Israel were meant to be a light to the nations, a model of God's justice and righteousness. Their current state was far from this ideal, and it pained Nehemiah to see his people suffering and their witness to the nations compromised.
Nehemiah's prayer in the following verses (Nehemiah 1:5-11) provides further insight into his understanding of the situation and his reliance on God. He begins by acknowledging God's greatness and faithfulness:
"Lord, the God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments." (Nehemiah 1:5, NIV)
Nehemiah then confesses the sins of the Israelites, including his own family's sins, recognizing that their current situation was a result of their disobedience:
"I confess the sins we Israelites, including myself and my father’s family, have committed against you. We have acted very wickedly toward you. We have not obeyed the commands, decrees and laws you gave your servant Moses." (Nehemiah 1:6-7, NIV)
This confession shows Nehemiah's humility and his understanding of the need for repentance. He does not distance himself from the sins of his people but includes himself in the confession, demonstrating solidarity and a collective responsibility.
Nehemiah also recalls God's promises, reminding God of His covenant and the promise to restore His people if they return to Him:
"Remember the instruction you gave your servant Moses, saying, ‘If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the nations, but if you return to me and obey my commands, then even if your exiled people are at the farthest horizon, I will gather them from there and bring them to the place I have chosen as a dwelling for my Name.’" (Nehemiah 1:8-9, NIV)
This appeal to God's faithfulness and promises is a key aspect of Nehemiah's prayer. It shows his deep knowledge of Scripture and his trust in God's unchanging character.
Finally, Nehemiah petitions God for success and favor as he prepares to approach the king with his request to return to Jerusalem and lead the rebuilding efforts:
"Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man." (Nehemiah 1:11, NIV)
Nehemiah's prayer is a model of intercessory prayer, combining adoration, confession, remembrance of God's promises, and supplication. It reflects his deep faith and his commitment to seeking God's will and guidance in addressing the dire situation in Jerusalem.
The news that Nehemiah received in Nehemiah 1:2-3 was a catalyst for his mission to rebuild Jerusalem, but it also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, prayer, and reliance on God in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. Nehemiah's story is not just about physical reconstruction but also about spiritual renewal, community restoration, and the fulfillment of God's promises. Through Nehemiah's leadership and faithfulness, we see a profound example of how God can use individuals to bring about His purposes and restore His people.
