Reading Nehemiah

The next book in the Bible is closely connected with the previous one, Ezra. Nehemiah talks about the same period of time, with many of the same events, just with a different perspective. In fact, Ezra and Nehemiah are so similar, in the Hebrew Bible, they are combined to form one book. However, other then the different perspective, there are other differences. One would be that Ezra focuses on the rebuilding of the temple, whereas Nehemiah focuses on the rebuilding of the wall. Author and Speaker Ray Stedman states that Ezra focuses on making the first step to reconnecting with God, while Nehemiah focuses of fulfilling the need for strength and security. Nehemiah tends to also highlight the powers up against his work, especially from foreign enemies that were frightened. His account is primarily first hand perspective, whereas sometimes in Ezra, it is third person, or an outside perspective.

However, once again, to be highlighted is the attitude and character of Nehemiah. He is another character who I feel does not get recognized enough. Again, I feel we should be studying Nehemiah for many of the same reasons as Ezra. Nehemiah was in a foreign situation, where the situation was extremely bleak. However, Nehemiah never lost sight of God, and dedicated his every action to the Lord. Nothing could distract him, nothing would prevent him from working for God. His passion and commitment were perhaps his most defining qualities.

There are a few special qualities that I think can be derived from Nehemiah's story that are slightly different than Ezra's. First, this project was very much a team project. The book of Nehemiah highlights the different roles that each person played in this rebuilding effort. Even more interesting to me is how the book highlights the two major leaders in the project; Ezra and Nehemiah. Together, they are working towards the same end result, yet each plays a different role in getting to that finish line. Two leaders, working together, using different methods, but simultaneously towards the same result. Rather than have one person shoulder all the responsibility, the project is shared between two capable men, who compliment each other with their contrasting styles and abilities.

I also noticed that Nehemiah immersed himself in prayer. Before the beginning of this grand adventure, Nehemiah immediately looked to the Lord for advice and for help. Throughout the journey, whenever an obstacle presented itself, Nehemiah again, looked to the Lord. Constantly, he was praying and praising, thanking and asking for help. His communication with God never ended. This perhaps could be the defining reason as to why he was so successful in his mission.