Nehemiah

Nehemiah served as cupbearer to the Persian king, but his heart broke when he heard that Jerusalem's walls were still in ruins. He prayed with tears, confessed the sins of his people, and asked God to give him favor. The king then allowed him to travel to Jerusalem with letters and supplies for the work. By night Nehemiah inspected the broken stones, then called the people to rebuild together. Soon the sound of hammers filled the city, yet enemies mocked, threatened, and tried to stop the project. Even so, the workers kept building, some with tools in one hand and weapons nearby for protection. In only fifty-two days the wall was finished, and everyone knew God had helped them. Nehemiah's story is about prayerful leadership, shared work, and courage in the face of opposition.