Today, let's focus more on how Nehemiah's actions enabled others to live more freely.
The Lord had entrusted Neh with a project... I imagine he did not know he had signed up for the responsibility of the people as well! But regardless, He took what was entrusted to Him by God seriously. If we look to scripture, we can find some insight and wisdom by looking at his responses:
1. He confronted the source of the problem.
Nehemiah's response to injustice was anger, but in his anger he did not sin. Instead, he "called a large meeting to deal with them" (5:7). Once the people were gathered he did not shy away from the truth, but shed light to what was happening: "What you are doing is not right. Shouldn't you walk in the fear of our God to avoid the reproach of our Gentile enemies? I and my brothers and my men are also lending the people money and grain. But let us stop charging interest!" (5:9-10)
2. He held those under his leadership/influence accountable. He took action in justice.
"Give back to them immediately their fields, vineyards, olive groves and houses, and also the interest you are charging them - one percent of the money, grain, new wine and olive oil." (5:11)
& Guess what? They listened! It was Nehemiah's job to call to action and remind them of truth, but God changes hearts to comply.
3. He led by example at the cost of his own comforts.
Nehemiah shares his official nomination for governor, and he handles his position with humility by honoring God. People in special position had previously been allotted more resources and land from the people's tax... but "it placed a heavy burden on the people" (5:15). He could have demanded what he was "owed"..."But out of reverence for God I did not act like that. Instead, I devoted myself to the work on this wall" (5:15-16). Neh was not excluded from making change; it cost something of him as well. His heart had to be to honor God, and not himself. Our motives must always be to make Him prosper, not ourselves.
4. He gave more than was asked.
While problem solving might have sufficed, Nehemiah did not stop there. Not only did he accept less for himself, he generously shared what was given to him with others. "A hundred and fifty Jews and officials ate at my table, as well as those who came to us from the surrounding nations" (5:17). He prepared feasts for huge parties .... at his table! I don't know about you, but cooking for two is crazy at times... but Neh invited others into the blessing that had been shared and prepared for him. How sweet!
You see, Nehemiah committed all he had to God. His plans, his purpose, his provisions existed only to please the Lord.
"Commit your actions to the LORD, and your plans will succeed." - Proverbs 16:3
"Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship." - Romans 12:1
What has God entrusted to you in this life? Family? Friendships? Marriages and occupations? Desires, talents and skills? How can we honor God in these? Let's ask him to help us, because if we are willing... don't you think He has been all along? Precious one, the Lord can multiply the insufficient fish and bread we think we offer, and make miracles... Just ask a young boy who gave what he had to Jesus, and experienced satisfaction for many! Our obedience is not only for us, but for others as well <3. Let's not miss it!
To Jesus be all the glory, and honor, and power <3 Amen.
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