The Prayers of Nehemiah

Nehemiah’s 4th Prayer – Nehemiah 5:19

Insights

1. In vv.14-19 we learn that Nehemiah had been appointed as Governor and that he would be in Jerusalem 12 years (Neh.2). 
2. Nehemiah’s responsibility would encompass entertaining Dignitaries from other parts of the Persian Empire. That was expensive. This was to be provided for from the taxes of the people.
3. Nehemiah chose to demonstrate leadership by going first and further than was expected by others. He was known for his generosity.
4. It is interesting to notice the trajectory of Nehemiah’s journey up to this point. We have moved from the initial report of Jerusalem’s destruction to days of prayer and fasting to permission granted, to building the walls and battling enemies to generosity as a Governor. The journey of life is never single-faceted, rather it is goal oriented with multiple goals in between.
5. Nehemiah’s prayer in v.19 is not self-centered as some would suggest. It is more about a remembrance of the covenant relationship. It is about a plea for God to be at work as Nehemiah strives to honor God with his life and actions

Observations

1. When a major crisis hits our life either through personal attacks or national attacks. The impact of such events is never short-term. There is a lasting impact upon leaders. Your mission will be altered, are you willing to adapt? Are you living with the “long-view” in mind?
2. Do not underestimate your current role (Nehemiah was a cupbearer). Promotions sometimes come at odd times and unique ways. Never lose sight of key leadership maxims; Leaders are servants; Leaders go first and go further than others.
3. Even in the face of national crisis you can be known as a generous person. A crisis is no excuse for selfishness. Demonstrate servant leadership at every opportunity.
4. Our current national crisis is a significant disruption that has altered our work life, home life, our children’s education life, and church life habits. A crisis causes you to change your life trajectory. Life is never single-focused. It is however fluid and always in motion.
5. National disruption requires bold prayers. Nehemiah demonstrates this by appealing to his covenant relationship with God. Our prayers should be an appeal for God’s activity while we work honorably to advance His name.

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