by Holly Newton

Read Nehemiah 2:1-10, Psalm 35:1-3, Hebrews 12:22-24

Why rebuild a wall around a broken city? You have to start somewhere.

Nehemiah led his people in rebuilding the wall that was originally built under Solomon, so they would remember that God is merciful, He would restore His people and He would keep His covenant. Let’s look at some history of the wall:

• It was built at a time when Israel’s future seemed bright (1 Kings3:1)

• God’s people were numerous (1Kings 3:8)

• His temple was under construction (1 Kings 6:1)

• There was peace border to border (1 Kings 4:25)

Fast forward to Nehemiah’s day:

• All had reversed.

• Countrymen were forgetting their home.

• Jerusalem was abandoned.

• The temple was destroyed.

• God’s people were scattered and enslaved.

The broken wall was also symbolic that something was broken in their relationship with God. Nehemiah experienced deep grief at the news. (Neh. 1:4) He wept for all the loss, the sorrow, and the shame. He longed for the wall to be restored, for the people of God to be restored.

I think it’s important to note here that Nehemiah’s heart was moved by what moved God’s heart. He was a man of action but he began by looking up in prayer. He prayed and asked for favor. He repented of his sins and the sins of his people. He asked God for success. He was compassionate, but God’s compassion was and is even greater.

Nehemiah’s prayer (Neh. 2:1-9) is an example of how we can approach the throne boldly, reverently, and with persistence. No prayers are wasted.

Brick by brick, Nehemiah and the people began to rebuild Jerusalem on God’s promises, not their own experiences. Many times faith looks like seeing beyond current circumstances around us to the restoration God has promised and in the process, comfort comes from the firm foundation of His faithfulness.

What broken thing needs restoration in your own life? How do the scriptures in Nehemiah and his example encourage you on how and where to begin the process?

Holly Newton is a passionate leader encouraging others to study scripture, ask the hard questions, and learn to hear God’s voice to more fully live in freedom and purpose. She is the Founder of She Lives Fearless, Author of Exhale; 90 Devotions and Savor The Wonder: Behold Jesus. She is a speaker, radio and tv segment speaker, and the She Lives Fearless Podcast host. Holly and her husband, Mark, have been married 31 years. They have three grown children, seven grandchildren and live with their much-loved yorkie, Lily, in the Orlando area. She loves to connect on Instagram @hollyanewton