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Nehemiah Series Tools
- Church Office
- Jan 14
- 35 min read
Updated: Apr 8
WEEK 12
Out With the Old, In With the Better: A Reflection on Nehemiah 13
Scripture Focus: Nehemiah 13:1-3 (ESV)
The story of Nehemiah concludes with a striking reminder: just because God can turn curses into blessings doesn’t mean we should invite those curses in the first place. When we flirt with compromise—whether it's toxic relationships, old habits, or sin masked as “fun”—we risk tearing down everything we’ve worked so hard to build.
It’s easy to think, “God will forgive me, so what’s the harm?” or “I know this isn’t right, but maybe it’ll work out.” But Nehemiah's story reveals a sobering truth: our enemy is always looking for a way in, a way to destroy what God is doing in our lives.
Guarding What God Has Built
In Nehemiah 13:4–9, we read that while Nehemiah was away, the people—once so committed—began to compromise. The high priest, of all people, allowed Tobiah (a known enemy) to move into the temple of God. Not just anywhere, but into the very place that was set apart for God's work.
This is what happens when we make space for the flesh—our old nature. It creeps in subtly, replacing the good things God has established in our lives with the very things He freed us from. Suddenly, we're no longer investing in God’s Kingdom because our heart, mind, and time are consumed by distractions.
Does God Just Want to Ruin Our Fun?
Absolutely not.
Jesus said, “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10)
1 Timothy 6:17 reminds us that God “richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment.”
God isn’t trying to rob you of joy—He’s trying to give you real joy. He’s protecting you from the destruction that sin inevitably brings. When we allow the old to creep back in, it pushes out the good things God has placed in our lives—things gained through prayer, perseverance, and pain.
So how do we respond? Just like Nehemiah: with passion, with purpose, and sometimes, with righteous anger. But not with bitterness or shame—God’s correction is always wrapped in love.
“Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil.” (Ephesians 4:6–7)
A Better Nehemiah
As great as Nehemiah was, he was only a shadow of the Savior to come. Nehemiah could rebuild walls, but he couldn’t rebuild hearts. He could bring external change, but not inner transformation.
Jesus is the better Nehemiah.
Where Nehemiah left the comfort of the palace, Jesus left heaven. Where Nehemiah rebuilt a wall, Jesus rebuilt a people. Where Nehemiah fought for righteousness, Jesus defeated sin, death, and the grave—once and for all.
As Hebrews 10 says, Jesus offered the one perfect sacrifice that makes us perfectly holy and complete for all time.
So… What Needs Rebuilding?
Maybe you’ve started strong. Maybe God has already begun a work of restoration in your life. But over time, other things have crept in and replaced the things of God—like they did in Israel.
Is prayer hard?
Does reading the Bible feel like a chore?
Has your joy in giving or worship faded?
Do you feel spiritually empty?
If that’s you, take a moment to reflect. Ask:
“Where have I been sidetracked?” “Where have I given space to the enemy in my life?”
Let the Holy Spirit speak to you. Then respond—not with shame, but with repentance.
What is Repentance?
A change of mind, Preceded by a change of heart, Proceeded by a change of life.
It’s an invitation to let go of the old and return to the One who makes all things new. Jesus isn’t just waiting to fix your mess—He wants to make you whole. But He will never force you. He invites you.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve given your life to Jesus, today is the day to recommit. Ask Him to protect you, to cover you in His armor (Ephesians 6), and to give you strength not to take it off. Stay vigilant. Guard what God has done.
And most importantly—don’t walk alone. Lean on your church family. Reach out. Stand together. You never know who needs your strength to help them stand again.
Prayer:
Jesus, I give you my whole heart. I repent of the places I’ve allowed compromise. Rebuild what’s been torn down. Protect me. Strengthen me. Fill me with your Spirit. Help me to stand firm, to stay awake, and to live a life that reflects You. I choose You again today. Amen.
Call to Action:
What in your life needs Jesus to rebuild? Comment below or share with a friend who’s in need of restoration. Let’s walk this journey together—because rebuilding is hard, but with Jesus, restoration is always possible.
WEEK 11
Rebuilding, Renewal, and Commitment: A Look at Nehemiah 10
The book of Nehemiah tells a powerful story of perseverance, revival, and commitment to God. The Israelites had journeyed from Babylonian captivity back to their homeland, where they faced numerous obstacles in rebuilding their city and their faith. Despite the trials, they remained steadfast under the leadership of Nehemiah. By the time we reach Nehemiah 10, we witness the culmination of their revival—a renewed covenant with God.
The Power of Conviction and Revival
In previous chapters, we saw how Nehemiah answered God’s call to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, securing the city and restoring its people’s identity. Throughout the process, Nehemiah faced opposition from external enemies and internal struggles among his people. Yet, he responded with wisdom, prayer, and unwavering faith. His mission was not just about physical restoration but about spiritual renewal.
As the Israelites listened to the Law of Moses being read aloud, they were deeply moved. They mourned their past sins, fasted, and prayed. Their hearts were overwhelmed by the realization of how far they had strayed from God. This heartfelt conviction led them to make a written covenant, binding themselves to follow God’s commandments.
A Renewed Commitment to God
Nehemiah 10 records the names of those who signed the covenant—leaders, priests, Levites, and the people. They made several solemn promises:
To Follow God’s Law Wholeheartedly – They pledged to obey the Law of God as given through Moses, recognizing their responsibility to live according to His will.
To Avoid Intermarriage with Pagan Nations – Understanding the risks of being led away from their faith, they committed to preserving their spiritual purity.
To Honor the Sabbath – They vowed to keep the Sabbath holy, resisting the pressure from surrounding nations to engage in commerce on this sacred day.
To Support the Temple and Its Work – Recognizing the importance of worship, they pledged to provide for the Temple’s needs through offerings and tithes.
To Give Their Firstfruits and Tithes – They committed to bringing the best of their crops, livestock, and goods as an offering to God, ensuring the provision for the Levites and the work of the Temple.
The Old Testament vs. The New Testament Perspective
While the Old Testament covenant was about external adherence to the Law, the New Testament shifts the focus to an internal transformation. Jesus taught that obedience is not just about following rules but about a heart change. The Law is now written on our hearts, guiding us through a relationship with Christ rather than a set of regulations.
In Acts 2, we see a similar revival among the early Christians. After Peter’s sermon, thousands repented and committed to following Christ. They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, and prayer. Their transformation was not just about external actions but about living out their faith from the heart.
What Does This Mean for Us Today?
The Israelites’ renewed commitment in Nehemiah 10 serves as a reminder that revival leads to action. When we experience God’s presence and grace, it stirs a desire to live differently. Here are a few takeaways for us:
Commitment Flows from a Changed Heart – True faith is not just about rules but about a relationship with God.
Faith Requires Action – Just as the Israelites pledged to honor God in practical ways, we are called to live out our faith daily.
Worship is More Than a Place – In the Old Testament, the Temple was the center of worship. Today, as believers, our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. How we live reflects our worship.
God’s Grace Calls Us to Renewal – Just as the Israelites were given a second chance, we too can experience renewal through Christ.
A restored life leads to joyful obedience. When we experience the love and grace of God, our response should be a commitment to follow Him wholeheartedly.
As we reflect this morning on the transformation of the Israelites and their “first love” experience with God. Where do you find yourself today? How quickly greed can get in the way of relationship with God, and others. Generosity of our hearts is what God longs for from us. We house the Holy Spirit within us!
WEEK 10
Unreasonable Grace: A Recap of Nehemiah 9
The Israelites found themselves stuck in a familiar cycle—striving, failing, and feeling distant from God. But in Nehemiah 9, something shifted. They stopped. They wept. They humbled themselves before God. Why? Because they realized they couldn’t fix what was broken inside them on their own. They needed God’s complete restoration.
1. Come to God in Brokenness
In Nehemiah 9:1-3, we witness a powerful moment of repentance. The people fasted, wore sackcloth, and covered themselves in dust—outward signs of an inward posture of humility. They spent hours reading the Law, confessing their sins, and worshiping God.
True repentance starts with brokenness. It’s an acknowledgment that we cannot fix ourselves. Jesus echoes this in Matthew 5:3: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Brokenness isn’t the end; it’s the beginning of restoration.
2. A Heart of Gratitude
Before confessing their sins, the Israelites began with worship. Nehemiah 9:5-15 recounts how they praised God for His faithfulness—His creation, His covenant with Abraham, His miracles in Egypt, His provision in the wilderness. Their gratitude kept their hearts soft toward God.
Gratitude shifts our focus. Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Worship aligns our hearts with God’s goodness, preparing us for transformation.
3. Recognizing Our Own Sin
As the Israelites reflected on their history (Nehemiah 9:16-37), they saw a pattern: rebellion, God’s mercy, and another cycle of rebellion. Despite their ancestors’ failures—arrogance, idolatry, forgetting God’s provision—He never abandoned them.
Verse 33 sums it up: “In all that has happened to us, you have remained righteous; you have acted faithfully, while we acted wickedly.” This was their wake-up call. They finally saw their sin for what it was. No more excuses. No more blaming the past. They acknowledged that their choices had led them into bondage.
Sin promises freedom but only brings chains. The Israelites confessed, not just to regret their past, but to change their future.
4. Making a Covenant to Follow God
Nehemiah 9:38 shows the Israelites’ response—they didn’t just say, “We’ll try harder.” They made a covenant, a binding agreement to follow God. They put it in writing and sealed it, making a public declaration: “We belong to God, and we’re not turning back.”
God’s work always leads to a place of decision. Recognizing sin isn’t enough; we must commit to change. The Israelites drew a line in the sand, sealing their commitment with action.
Our Story, His Grace
Nehemiah 9 is our story too. Like the Israelites, we hear the truth, but restoration requires more than just hearing—it requires engagement, humility, gratitude, repentance, and a commitment to follow God fully.
But here’s the reality: The Israelites couldn’t keep their covenant. Neither can we. That’s why we needed something greater than a cycle of trying and failing.
We needed Jesus.
Jesus is the new covenant. In Luke 22:20, He says, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.” He is our hope, our restoration, and our way forward. Sin isn’t just breaking rules—it separates us from who we were created to be. Yet, in His unreasonable grace, God pursued us anyway.
So, what’s your response? When was the last time you truly grieved over the things that have taken first place in your life over God? What step is God calling you to take today?
God’s grace isn’t just meant to comfort—it’s meant to transform. And transformation starts with a decision. What’s yours?
WEEK 9
Rebuilding Walls, Restoring Hearts: The Power of God’s Word
As a team, we’ve been journeying through the book of Nehemiah, each bringing our unique perspectives and insights. Yet, amidst our different voices, common threads emerge—humility, wisdom, discernment, endurance, and overcoming obstacles. These themes aren’t just stories from the past; they are living truths that shape our faith today.
A Fresh Start: The Rebuilding of a Nation
In Nehemiah 7, we find a significant moment in Israel’s history. The walls of Jerusalem have been rebuilt, and the people are beginning to return. Nehemiah takes inventory, recording names and households, ensuring structure and stability for this fresh start. Fifty thousand people, along with their livestock and belongings, move back into Jerusalem and its surrounding areas. Homes need to be rebuilt, governance restored, and worship reinstated in the temple.
Then, in Nehemiah 8, something extraordinary happens. The people, now settled in their towns, gather as one at the Water Gate. They don’t wait for a decree from the temple priests; instead, they ask Ezra to bring out the Book of the Law of Moses. This was the moment. The walls had been rebuilt, but now another restoration needed to take place—a spiritual renewal.
Strength in Unity
The rebuilding of Jerusalem didn’t just involve physical labor; it required a unified heart. The people chose to gather. They were hungry for God’s Word, eager to know what He had to say to them. Unity was the foundation upon which this revival was built.
God moves through the collective. A movement of change doesn’t have to start with a person on a stage or a voice on a screen. It begins when a group of believers comes together, saying, “Speak to us, Lord! Give us direction!” The Israelites began this new chapter by seeking truth, by longing for God’s presence.
The Power of God’s Word
As Ezra read from the Law, the people listened intently. They praised God, lifting their hands and bowing in worship. But then, something deeper happened—they wept. Conviction settled in as they realized how far they had strayed from God’s commands. Imagine the emotions they must have felt—remorse for past failures, awe at God’s faithfulness, and hope for restoration.
But their sorrow wasn’t meant to lead to despair. Nehemiah and the priests encouraged them:
“Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with those who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength!” (Nehemiah 8:10)
Their grief turned to joy. Understanding God’s Word led them not just to repentance but to renewal and celebration.
A Revival Like No Other
What followed was a time of deep obedience and rejoicing. The people rediscovered the Festival of Shelters and joyfully observed it, just as God had commanded through Moses. The result? A revival unlike anything seen since the days of Joshua.
This moment in Israel’s history teaches us something profound:
God’s Word leads to conviction and truth.
Understanding His Word brings wisdom, strength, and restoration.
Joy follows when we respond to God with obedience and celebration.
Jesus: The Living Word
The Bible isn’t just an ancient text; it’s the living, breathing Word of God. And Jesus is its embodiment:
“So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness.” (John 1:14)
When we seek to understand Scripture, we are ultimately seeking to know Jesus. And knowing Jesus transforms us. His Word restores, heals, and gives life.
Rebuilding Our Walls
Just as the Israelites rebuilt Jerusalem’s walls, we all have walls in our lives that need restoration. Some of these walls are built together as a community, requiring collective effort. Others are deeply personal, requiring us to lay one stone at a time. But in both cases, Jesus must be present at the job site.
He is our foreman, our supplier, and the one building right alongside us. When we invite Him into our process, He takes our brokenness and turns it into something whole.
Questions to Reflect On
Do you know who Jesus is? How do you view God?
Do you read God’s Word to truly hear it? If not, who can help you understand it better?
Have you allowed Jesus and the Holy Spirit to speak life over you?
Is there someone in your life who needs to hear God’s words of joy and restoration through you?
We have the power to change lives with the words we speak—to ourselves and to others. Let’s be a people who build, restore, and bring joy through the truth of God’s Word.
May you be blessed this week as you seek Him!
WEEK 8
The Cost of Completion - Nehemiah 6 & Nehemiah 7:1-3
Have you ever felt that life suddenly throws everything at you right before a breakthrough?
You step into what God has called you to do, and suddenly—opposition, distractions, and fear come rushing in. It’s like the enemy is working overtime to get you off course.
That’s exactly what Nehemiah faced while rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem. But instead of giving in to the noise around him, he stayed laser-focused on the work God had given him. His story teaches us how to navigate opposition, keep our purpose front and center, and press forward when fear tries to stop us.
Opposition is Inevitable, But Distraction Doesn’t Have to Be
Nehemiah’s enemies—Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem—tried every tactic to stop him. At first, they acted friendly, inviting him to a meeting in the plain of Ono. But Nehemiah saw through their scheme. He discerned their true intent: distraction.
Distraction often comes disguised as something harmless—even good. It can look like an innocent conversation, a well-meaning suggestion, or a tempting opportunity. But Nehemiah had his priorities straight. His response? “I am engaged in a great work, so I can’t come” (Nehemiah 6:3). He refused to step away from his God-given mission for anything less.
Since distraction didn’t work, his enemies moved to slander. They spread rumors that Nehemiah was trying to make himself king, hoping to stir up fear and doubt. But Nehemiah didn’t waste time defending himself. He simply said, “There is no truth in any part of your story” (Nehemiah 6:8) and pressed on with even greater determination.
How often do we let distractions pull us away from our purpose? Maybe it’s social media, comparison, perfectionism, or fear of criticism. The enemy doesn’t always need to destroy us—sometimes, he just needs to slow us down. But Nehemiah reminds us: when we stay focused, we silence the distractions and move forward in what God has called us to do.
Fear Will Try to Stop You, But Faith Must Lead You
When distractions failed, Nehemiah’s enemies tried one last tactic—fear. A man named Shemaiah, whom Nehemiah likely trusted, warned him that people were coming to kill him. His solution? “Run into the temple and hide.”
At first glance, this sounded like wisdom. But Nehemiah realized something was off. Why would Shemaiah know about the attack? And why was he suggesting something that went against God’s law? Nehemiah saw the trap: if he acted in fear, he would discredit himself. Instead, he stood firm, refusing to let fear dictate his decisions.
Fear works the same way in our lives. It disguises itself as wisdom, whispering, “Play it safe. Wait until the timing is better. Don’t take the risk.” It makes us question if we’re the right person for the job or if we’ll fail. But Nehemiah shows us that fear is a liar. If the enemy can’t distract us, he’ll try to make us stop ourselves.
So how do we fight back against fear?
Pray Persistently – Nehemiah was a man of prayer. He constantly turned to God for strength. Prayer isn’t just a last resort; it’s our greatest weapon.
Keep Your Vision Visible – Write down your “why.” Keep it in front of you so that when fear creeps in, you remember what God has called you to.
Speak Truth Over Your Life – Proverbs 18:21 says the power of life and death is in the tongue. Instead of saying, “I don’t know if I can do this,” declare, “God has called me to this, and He will equip me.”
Remember Past Victories – David defeated Goliath by remembering how God had delivered him before (1 Samuel 17:37). Nehemiah did the same. Look back at how God has already been faithful to you—He won’t stop now.
Keep Building—Your Breakthrough Is Closer Than You Think
Despite all the opposition, the wall was completed in just 52 days. And the very people who mocked Nehemiah? They were the ones left in fear, realizing that God had been with him all along.
When the enemy turns up the heat, it’s usually a sign you’re on the right path. Deuteronomy 31:6 reminds us, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you, nor forsake you.”
So keep building. Keep pressing forward. Your breakthrough is coming, and the cost of completion is worth it.
WEEK 7
This teaching on Nehemiah 5 highlights the theme of spiritual and moral restoration alongside the physical rebuilding of Jerusalem. It draws parallels between the struggles of the Israelites and personal struggles in modern life, emphasizing the importance of integrity, humility, and righteous living.
God loved them so much that He said, “ I’m calling you UP to a righteousness that brings peace and grace and restoration to your own hearts. This righteousness will wash away this counterfeit way of living. It rights the wrong way you have been thinking. Your pride is going to take a beating for a minute, but you will know that I have loved you through all of this!” There is a purification that God had to take them through spiritually……He was helping them with the monetary things, like the new temple and building the walls, but more than that He desired for their hearts to be pure and righteous!
Choosing the “Righteous Path” was hard! Nehemiah had to face his sin as well as the sin of the people. Even though Nehemiah’s sin was not as “bad” as the officials', he still took responsibility for his part. Nehemiah’s position was a sin.
Humility of heart can make it hard and impossible to bear the weight of embarrassment that you are no better than those who stand before you. Taking the speck out of your eye first is what leads to repentance on the path to a more righteous way of living.
Living with integrity.
Key takeaways:
Cycle of Hardship & Oppression – The Israelites faced ongoing opposition, both from external forces and their own people, reflecting a cycle of hardship tied to their history.
Addressing Injustice – Nehemiah confronted the wealthy Israelites who were exploiting their poorer relatives, calling them to repentance and action.
Righteous Leadership – Nehemiah exemplified integrity by acknowledging his own role, refusing personal gain, and leading by example.
The “Righteous Path” – Choosing righteousness often reveals hidden sin and requires humility, repentance, and a commitment to integrity.
Spiritual Restoration – More than rebuilding walls, God’s plan was to restore the people’s hearts, teaching them to walk in righteousness.
Reflection:
What broken areas in our own lives need rebuilding? Are we willing to confront our own participation in dysfunction and pursue a path of humility and integrity?
God’s restoration is complete when we choose to walk in truth.
WEEK 6
Who is in your corner?
Nehamiah knew who was in his corner.
He was a ordinary guy called to do extraordinary things. He chose to walk in humility, with wisdom, and with perseverance. And he also faced strong opposition. And he knew who was in his corner.
Nehemiah Chapter 4 is all about the opposition that he faced when they were building the wall, and how he handled it.
We start off the chapter jumping right into the line of fire:
1 Sanballat was very angry when he learned that we were rebuilding the wall. He flew into a rage and mocked the Jews, 2 saying in front of his friends and the Samarian army officers, “What does this bunch of poor, feeble Jews think they’re doing? Do they think they can build the wall in a single day by just offering a few sacrifices? Do they actually think they can make something of stones from a rubbish heap—and charred ones at that?”
3 Tobiah the Ammonite, who was standing beside him, remarked, “That stone wall would collapse if even a fox walked along the top of it!”
How familiar does that feel?
What have people said about you?
When pursuing a higher purpose, especially in ministry, opposition is inevitable. The enemy attacks through harsh words, falsehoods, and judgment to discourage and create strongholds of doubt and insecurity. Lies such as “You’re not good enough” or “You will fail” are used to undermine confidence. This kind of verbal attack is nothing new—Nehemiah faced similar opposition, just as we see today in modern forms like social media negativity.
Jesus was no stranger to opposition like this.
Jesus was ridiculed, scoffed at, teased, spat on, run out of town, chased by angry mobs, mocked, and beaten. During the trial of Jesus Mathew 26: 66 Jesus is being chastised by the religious leaders and Jesus tells them that he is the Son of Man who will be seated at the right hand of God, reiterating to them that he is who he says that he is.
They speak to him like school yard bullies.
Evil follows a familiar pattern—repetitive but effective. The enemy’s attacks aren’t creative, yet they still hurt. Old wounds resurface, and the words linger, knocking us off track.
How do we respond to this opposition?
Lets look at how Nehemiah handles this.
4Then I prayed, “Hear us, our God, for we are being mocked. May their scoffing fall back on their own heads, and may they themselves become captives in a foreign land! 5Do not ignore their guilt. Do not blot out their sins, for they have provoked you to anger here in front of the builders.”
6At last the wall was completed to half its height around the entire city, for the people had worked with enthusiasm.
Nehemiah knew they were mocking them to their face, but really they were mocking God to his face. He knew that he was doing the work set before him in the name of the Lord. It was holy work that he was doing, and a mock against him and his people was a mock against God. The retribution is God’s. Then they got to work. They did not let the words of the enemy stop them from doing the work that needed to be completed. This did not mean that the opposition stopped, in fact it continued. The words of the enemy turned to action by the enemy. They planned to physically stop them.
7 But when Sanballat and Tobiah and the Arabs, Ammonites, and Ashdodites heard that the work was going ahead and that the gaps in the wall of Jerusalem were being repaired, they were furious. 8They all made plans to come and fight against Jerusalem and throw us into confusion. 9But we prayed to our God and guarded the city day and night to protect ourselves.
Nehemiah responded to the threat of attack by enemy by posting guards along the weak spots in the wall. We all have weak spots in the wall. We all have vulnerabilities. And the first step is to stop and recognize where those weak spots are and to not ignore them. Taking time to fortify the weak points is wisdom.
Faith and Perseverance is hard to live out, without wisdom.
The story of Nehemiah continually shows us that wisdom in the midst of the work is crucial. Praying for wisdom is an amazing prayer. Praying for foresight is an amazing prayer. Trusting your gut. If it feels off, don’t ignore it. Listen to the words of the holy spirit. He speaks to those who listen to his voice and often times he points out the kinks in the armor, the stumbling blocks, and the places in the wall that haven’t quite had time to be rebuilt yet.
12 The Jews who lived near the enemy came and told us again and again, “They will come from all directions and attack us!” 13 So I placed armed guards behind the lowest parts of the wall in the exposed areas. I stationed the people to stand guard by families, armed with swords, spears, and bows.
The enemy is attacking? Threatening? Plotting? Grab your swords and spears. Guard the weaknesses. Stand firm and hold the line. Walk with endurance.
This Perseverance is also something that comes from Jesus. It is a strength that we get to tap into that is offered to us. Paul in Romans writes his famous passage about the Endurance that God has to offer us.
Romans 5:3-5 3
But that’s not all! Even in times of trouble we have a joyful confidence, knowing that our pressures will develop in us patient endurance. And patient endurance will refine our character, and proven character leads us back to hope. And this hope is not a disappointing fantasy, because we can now experience the endless love of God cascading into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who lives in us!
When you know who represents you, you can do the work in confidence. When you know that the Holy Spirit lives inside of you, fulling you. You are able to KEEP GOING. JUST KEEP GOING. In the midst of… not in spite of. The enemy can’t stand against it. And it ruins his entire plan.
Nehemiah and his people persevered because they knew God was on their side. Despite fear and opposition, they acted with wisdom, defended their weak points, and continued their work, trusting in God’s anointing.
Likewise, our true advocate is not found in worldly figures or fleeting promises but in Jesus—who is all-powerful, loving, and ever-present. No matter the challenges we face in our calling, we can move forward with confidence, knowing Jesus fights our battles, brings justice, and clears the path ahead. While setbacks and struggles are inevitable, the promise has never been a life without conflict but the assurance that God is with us through it all.
The promise was always Deuteronomy 31:8 “he will go before you, he will be with you and he will never abandon you”
Do you truly know who is in your corner?
Will you trust that God is who He says He is?
Are you willing to accept His unwavering love and advocacy?
As you face challenges, will you trust that He will never abandon you?
WEEK 5
Building Together
How many of you remember building a fort as a kid? Maybe it was in the living room, with blankets draped over chairs, pillows stacked up as walls, and a secret entrance that only the most trusted friends could enter. The process: gather every blanket you could find, rearrange furniture, and work to bring the vision to life. And for a while, it was perfect—until someone bumped a chair, a blanket slipped, and part of the fort collapsed. And so, we did what we had to do: we rebuilt it together.
That’s what we see happening in Nehemiah 3. After arriving in Jerusalem, Nehemiah knew rebuilding the city’s walls was a massive task. But he also knew one crucial truth: God never calls us to rebuild alone. Whether it’s a wall, a church, a family, or a life—restoration happens in community.
Last week, we talked about how Nehemiah faced opposition. This week, we focus on how the work actually got done. Nehemiah didn’t build the wall by himself; he called the people to action, and they came together to get the job done. And that brings us to today’s key takeaway: God calls us to rebuild through the strength of community, where trust, diversity, and shared purpose create something stronger than we could achieve alone.
Let’s break this down into three points:
1. Acknowledge the Need for Help
Rebuilding starts with recognizing the need for help. In Nehemiah 2:17-18, Nehemiah says, “Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem.” He didn’t try to do it alone; he invited others into the work. In Chapter 3, we see people stepping up—priests, goldsmiths, merchants, even women—all working on different sections of the wall.
How often do we walk past the broken walls in our own lives and convince ourselves we can handle it alone? Maybe it’s a relationship, an addiction, or a struggle we don’t want to admit. But real rebuilding starts with vulnerability. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminds us, “Two are better than one... for if they fall, one will lift up his fellow.”
Think about a time when you asked for help—when you let someone into your struggle. Where are you now because of that moment? Healing doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens when we invite others in.
2. Trust God and Trust Others
Acknowledging the need for help is one thing—trusting others to walk alongside you is another. Nehemiah assigned people to work on sections of the wall near their own homes, ensuring accountability and ownership. But not everyone was on board. Nehemiah 3:5 tells us, “The Tekoite nobles would not stoop to serve their Lord.” Some people refused to participate.
That’s a reality we all face. Not everyone will support what God is doing in your life. Some will be indifferent. Some might even try to discourage you. But Nehemiah didn’t waste time convincing the nobles to join—he focused on those who were willing to work.
Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” When rebuilding, ask God to reveal who is truly in your corner. Some people won’t pick up a brick, and that’s okay. The right people will.
3. Embracing Diversity in Community
One of the most powerful aspects of Nehemiah 3 is the diversity of those involved. This wasn’t just a job for skilled builders. The chapter lists priests, goldsmiths, perfumers, rulers, and women—breaking cultural norms of the time.
This is a reminder that God’s work is for everyone. The kingdom of God isn’t built by a select few; it’s built by people from all walks of life, just like Jesus’ disciples—a mix of fishermen, tax collectors, and zealots.
God will often use people we don’t expect to help us rebuild. Be open to those He places in your life. True community isn’t about sameness—it’s about unity in purpose.
Bringing It All Together
Rebuilding—whether it’s a wall, a church, a relationship, or a life—is never meant to be done alone. Nehemiah 3 teaches us that when we acknowledge the need for help, trust God and others, and embrace the diversity of the community, we can accomplish far more than we ever could on our own. The wall wasn’t built by one man. It was built by a community of people under one vision.
So, what broken walls are in your life? Where is God calling you to rebuild? And most importantly—who are you inviting to build alongside you?
WEEK 4
Road Block Ahead
(Starting the work Despite the Opposition) Verses 11-20
Road Block Ahead
We’ve been walking through the story of Nehemiah, and this week, we find him finally arriving in Jerusalem. If you’re just joining in, here’s a quick recap: Nehemiah was a cupbearer to King Artaxerxes in Persia, which is modern-day Iran. He was an Israelite, and when he heard about the state of Jerusalem—the broken walls, the burned gates, the disgrace of his people—it wrecked him. His heart was burdened, and he knew something had to be done.
The walls of Jerusalem weren’t just physical barriers; they represented security, dignity, and legitimacy for God’s people. Without them, the city was vulnerable—both physically and spiritually. That’s where Nehemiah stepped in, taking on the hard work of restoration.
But here’s the thing—restoration isn’t just an ancient story. It’s our story, too.
Take a moment and think: What walls in your life are in ruins? What areas need rebuilding? Maybe it’s a broken relationship, a shattered dream, a ministry that feels stuck, or a personal struggle that’s left you feeling exposed and vulnerable. This story isn’t just about Nehemiah—it’s about us. Individually, as a church, and as a nation, we have broken places that need God’s restoration.
Step 1: Assess the Damage Before You Rebuild
Nehemiah didn’t rush in swinging hammers and stacking bricks. Instead, he took time to survey the land. Nehemiah 2:11-15 tells us that he went out at night, quietly inspecting the walls. He didn’t make a big announcement. He just took it all in, seeing firsthand what he was up against.
That’s wisdom. How often do we rush into fixing things without a plan? Without taking a step back to pray, prepare, and understand the full scope of what needs to be done? Just because it’s God’s plan doesn’t mean we don’t need preparation. Even when we’re doing kingdom work—whether it’s a ministry, a business, or personal healing—it won’t happen overnight. It’s going to take effort, setbacks, and perseverance.
So, what does preparing look like in our lives?
Pray first. Before making big decisions, bring them before God.
Make a plan. If you’re stepping into something new—whether in ministry, business, or personal growth—do your homework. A SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) isn’t just for businesses. It’s practical wisdom for life.
Seek wise counsel. Learn from those who have walked similar roads.
Ask God: What do You want me to work on? Many of us are so busy that we don’t even realize what’s broken. Take the time to let God reveal what needs rebuilding.
Step 2: Be Wise About Who You Involve
Nehemiah didn’t broadcast his plans right away. He kept it to a small, trusted group at first. Why? Because timing matters. If he had started talking too soon, opposition could have shut the project down before it even started.
We see this wisdom in Jesus, too. In Matthew 8, after healing a man with leprosy, Jesus told him, “Don’t tell anyone about this” (Matthew 8:4). Why? Because the timing wasn’t right. Jesus knew that premature publicity could disrupt His mission.
When God places a vision in your heart, not everyone needs to know about it immediately. Not everyone will understand or support it. And that’s okay. Wisdom means knowing when to share and when to wait.
Step 3: Expect Opposition
As soon as Nehemiah shared the plan, two reactions emerged:
Some people were immediately on board: “Yes, let’s rebuild the wall!” (Nehemiah 2:18). They were ready for change.
Others mocked and questioned: “What are you doing? Are you rebelling against the king?” (Nehemiah 2:19).
Sound familiar? Any time we step into God’s calling—whether rebuilding a broken part of our life, starting a new ministry, or making a bold move—there will be voices of doubt. Some will cheer you on. Others will question, criticize, and try to discourage you.
But Nehemiah’s response? Boldness. “The God of heaven will help us succeed” (Nehemiah 2:20). He knew who called him, and he stood firm in that truth.
What about us? When opposition comes, do we shrink back, or do we stand firm in God’s calling? Peter and John faced the same challenge in Acts 4. After healing a crippled man and preaching about Jesus, they were dragged before the religious leaders. Their response? Boldness. They declared the name of Jesus with confidence, and even their enemies “were amazed when they saw the boldness of Peter and John” (Acts 4:13).
When God calls us to rebuild, we can stand with that same boldness.
Step 4: Remember—This is God’s Plan, Not Ours
One last thing: The rebuilding wasn’t Nehemiah’s idea. It was God’s. And that’s key.
Sometimes we think we have to do everything on our own. But Nehemiah wasn’t building for himself—he was part of something bigger. God doesn’t call us to rebuild because we’re special; He calls us because He has a plan. He equips us with talents, creativity, and drive, but ultimately, it’s His work.
Could God have rebuilt the wall in an instant? Of course. But He chose to work through Nehemiah. Just like He chooses to work through us.
So, what’s your wall? What is God calling you to rebuild? Maybe it’s a personal struggle, a broken relationship, a dream you’ve put on hold, or a ministry He’s stirring in you. Whatever it is, know this:
God has given you a vision for a reason.
He will equip you for the work.
He will be with you in the opposition.
And He will complete what He has started.
So, take the first step. Assess the damage. Make a plan. Move forward in wisdom. And trust that God is in it.
Because just like in Nehemiah’s time, restoration is possible. And it starts with saying, “Yes, let’s rebuild.”
WEEK 3
Nehemiah 1:11 NIV
11 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.” I was cupbearer to the king.
Nehemiah 2:1-3 NLT
Nehemiah Goes to Jerusalem
2 Early the following spring, in the month of Nisan,[a] during the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes’ reign, I was serving the king his wine. I had never before appeared sad in his presence. 2 So the king asked me, “Why are you looking so sad? You don’t look sick to me. You must be deeply troubled.”
Then I was terrified, 3 but I replied, “Long live the king! How can I not be sad? For the city where my ancestors are buried is in ruins, and the gates have been destroyed by fire.”
WAITING
There are four months between the time of Nehemiah’s news of the wall to the time he offered his prayer and conversation with King Artaxerxes.
When you get a passion in your heart and you’re anxious to get something done, waiting is not the easiest thing to do. Most of us don’t like the process of waiting, but it’s what we do in that waiting time, that’s important.
Nehemiah asked for favor with the King, perhaps it was these four months that the king took note of who Nehemiah was and the service that he provided. We know that the position of the cupbearer was important and that Nehemiah probably saw the King daily, as a result of his responsibility. So much so that the king took note that Nehemiah was not his usual self. It led Artaxerxes to inquire about his well-being.
In the waiting, God works out all the details. These details are important, as God’s greatest desire is for our hearts to have opportunities for change, not just changed behavior.
We may not understand all the pieces that need to come together, but God does.
PREPARATION IN THE WAITING
This could seem like a long time when you feel the zest of God’s calling. There are times when God’s promises and answers appear to happen instantly and other times they appear to take forever.
We often don’t see that; promises and answers take time and preparation.
Do you ever feel God has something for you to do? You try to pray yet your mind wanders, you get that funny feeling in your stomach, a mixture of excitement and fear. You start second guessing maybe this was a “to much pizza dream” and start to doubt that this is God.
In those four months of waiting, Nehemiah did a lot of praying. I am sure that as he thought about the task, he had moments when he was overwhelmed by the importance of this huge undertaking. Would he have everything needed to do the job, the resources, the people, and the time?
OPPORTUNITY COMES (RECAP)
The King takes notice (what’s wrong?) and asks How can I help?
Scared Nehemiah takes the opportunity and speaks up.
THE RESPONSE
The King gives: permission (relieves anxiety and fear of consequences, freedom to act, clear mind to focus)
Provision (everything to complete the task or meet the need)
Protection (a shield or hedge to buffer from undesired negative forces)
I don’t know if Nehemiah fully understood what he asked for and what he received. That’s because we (he) are often limited in our scope of the situation. Did Nehemiah realize he would need protection? Did he fully know what he would need? Did he understand the possible resistance there would be? I know that God was fully aware and God met all of Nehemiah’s needs to accomplish His will.
All through the Bible we witness God’s provision for his people. He fed all of Isreal during the 40 years in the wilderness (Exodus 16), protected Daniel in the lions (Daniel 6), provided tax payment for Jesus and the disciples in a fish (John 17), and freed the disciples in prison supernaturally (Acts 12) and permitted the disciples to do greater things than Jesus (John 14.)
What is waiting for you? How does God want to use you, and provide for you?
God wants to provide for you and fulfill whatever he has called you to do and he wants to provide for you in your daily life. You will note in verse Nehemiah asks for timber not just for the Temple but for a house for himself.
Nehemiah 2:8
New Living Translation
And please give me a letter addressed to Asaph, the manager of the king’s forest, instructing him to give me timber. I will need it to make beams for the gates of the Temple fortress, for the city walls, and for a house for myself.” And the king granted these requests because the gracious hand of God was on me.
One of our core values is: the other six days Our faith in God’s provisions is not just a Sunday or once-a-week thing. It is an everyday provision. All of us are called to share the love of God with others. That’s done by how we live our other six days. If we actively seek God’s face and ask him to help us fulfill His call, He will equip us and provide all the provision we need.
Do you have a need, is God asking you to do something? In the very beginning of Nehemiah, he is with his brother and other men and he asks; how are things? They told him “Not well.” He was greatly concerned and wept.
When presented with the same question, “How are you doing?”
Do we answer honestly?
At connection church, we want the opportunity to minister in meaningful ways. We want to walk with you through your brokenness. We want to be a community for you as God is repairing and rebuilding you.
In chapter one of Nehemiah, it describes the brokenness of those who survived the exile as great trouble and disgrace. The walls are broken down and the gates burn with fire.
Perhaps you feel your life is broken, that you have been burnt with the “fires of life”.
God wants to repair and rebuild your life. He wants to provide for your needs.
Have you asked God what he has called you to? Are you willing to step out in faith, trusting He will provide for your needs to accomplish His will?
Hebrews 12:1
New Living Translation
God’s Discipline Proves His Love
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.
3 takeaways from Nehemiah
If God has called you to do something He will provide all that you need.
If you are broken, He wants to repair that brokenness and He has everything needed to do so.
God is our provider no matter the circumstances. He cares for you.
WEEK 2
God is God, and I am not
If things need to change, then I need to change
Dependency = Ability
The first thing Nehemiah does is call to God for help. He prays and fasts for about 100
days from the day he hears the news of Jerusalem till the time his prayer is answered! How and why did he persist? Because in humility, he knew that in his own strength there was nothing he could do. But he had heard of the LORD God, the God of His ancestors, how He parted the Red Sea, led His people out of slavery, created all things! So he begins his prayer acknowledging Who God is... 'And I said, “O Lord God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, let your ear be attentive and your eyes open, to hear the prayer of your servant that I now pray before you day and night for the people of Israel your servants,...” Nehemiah 1:5-6. Praying this way puts things in perspective. In other words, “You are God! I am not. And I needYou!” If we think we can do it, we won’t go to God, but instead, we’ll turn to other things, just like the people of Judah did! The first building block to restoration is prayer through humility. If things need to change, then I need to change.
"Let your ear be attentive and your eyes open, to hear the prayer of your servant that I now pray before you day and night for the people of Israel your servants, confessing the sins of the
people of Israel, which we have sinned against you. Even I and my father’s house have sinned. We have acted very corruptly against you and have not kept the commandments, the statutes, and the rules that you commanded your servant Moses. ' Nehemiah 1:6-7
Repentance is: A change of mind
Preceded by a change of heart
Proceeded by a change of life and this is what Nehemiah began to do in his prayer to the
LORD.
The change of heart is a work initiated by the Holy Spirit within us. We see this Acts 2 The
apostle Peter shares with a huge group of people the Word of God and testifies to the work of
Jesus Christ. As he is speaking, The Spirit touches the hearts of 3,000 people, and this is what
happened:
'Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the
apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. ' Acts 2:37-38
Is there something in your life that you feel conviction over that needs a change of heart, mind,
and life? Are there decisions you are making that are causing your heart to harden toward God?
This is where repentance comes in.... Seeing our brokenness and softening our hearts to our
own state, wanting something to change and determine that we are willing to do something
about it, and then turning to God with it all in prayer, acknowledging that He can help and we
want His help...This is the process of becoming restored. And it doesn’t happen over night!
'Stop imitating the ideals and opinions of the culture around you, but be inwardly transformed by the Holy Spirit through a total reformation of how you think. This will empower you to discern God’s will as you live a beautiful life, satisfying and perfect in His eyes.' Romans 12:2
The change of life happens when we stay in this place of oneness with Jesus, allowing Holy
Spirit to continually change our hearts, and as He does, we change or “renew” our minds. This then influences everything we do, and as this process continues, our lives continue to change. '
“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. ' John 15:5
Dependency = Ability
Often the mentality in church or “Christian culture" is that we need to roll up our sleeves and just be better, make better decisions, just get it together!
Those who you may know that have a solid foundation for their life, that aren’t easily shaken, and that have strength in any adversity, are people who have their life anchored to God, fully dependent on Him, by the fasteners of prayer.
Nehemiah throughout this book, though not perfect, turns to God in prayer and leans on Him for help in time of need.
Even Christ, the God the Man, demonstrated His dependency on God the Father by His prayer
life. In the Gospel of Mark it says, ‘...Jesus got up long before daylight, left the house while it
was dark, and made his way to a secluded place to give himself to prayer. ' Mark 1:35 He would do this often. He would pray at times before and after healing someone, before choosing His disciples, before going to the Cross in the garden where He said, “Father, not my will, but Yours be done”, and even on the Cross. As our example, Jesus showed the power of living in oneness with total dependency on God through prayer.
What in your life needs restoration and rebuilding?
Restoration begins when we bring our brokenness to God in Prayer. As we find out through the
rest of our study of Nehemiah, restoration is hard work and we will face challenges and
obstacles, but in turning our eyes to Jesus in prayer, and persisting in prayer, we will watch the
God who was faithful to His Word continue to be faithful to His Word.
WEEK 1
The Old Testament is the story of God's love to his people through law and covenant.
The New Testament is the story of God's love by way of Jesus. Jesus being the final sacrificial lamb of atonement for our sins. Breaking us free from the law and bringing us into a new covenant.
As we venture through this book of the Bible together, we will be connecting Nehemiah’s process of rebuilding in a couple of different ways. We will be connecting it to where we are as a church body on the small scale, where we are on the larger scale “the greater scope of THE church” and on a personal level, where you are in this process of rebuilding in your own life.
Are there places that have some rubble that needs our attention?
So where are you today? What are you building upon? Where in your life is there rubble and trials and maybe even wreckage?
We literally have a visual of total destruction of a city in Los Angeles. One day it is standing the next day it is a pile of ashes…….
Our lives can feel that way sometimes, where do you turn for your help?
God was using everyday normal people to accomplish His work. During all the time that they were in 70 years of captivity God was using Daniel, a young man taken into captivity he was an ordinary guy (a brilliant ordinary guy) put in a position of honor in the kings court. Served a dangerous king, survived a lion's den, and during this time, he never faltered in his obedience to his God.
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego survived a firey furnace because they would not bow down to an evil king.
Esther's story happened during the time of the reconstruction and what that actually tells us is that even though Cyrus had given permission to rebuild, there was still trouble that happened during the rebuilding process. Hence, Esther's story.
Will you be able to trust that God can do what He says He can and will do in your life? Will you be open to where He might take you?