Nehemiah 3

This is another one of those passages where the initial tendency upon first encounter would be just to quickly skim over it, since it would appear to be just mainly a list of names of those who were REBUILDING and REPAIRING the wall and gates around Jerusalem.  Yet, it was important enough to be included in Scripture, so as we dig deeper and examine more carefully, we would discover hidden nuggets of treasures here as well.

Nehemiah's leadership is once again demonstrated through motivating such a widespread group of people to work together.  Starting with the example of the spiritual leadership (high priest, priests, Levites) who dedicated and consecrated the work to God, the workers include people associated with families or cities throughout Judah and Benjamin, men, women, rulers, and the working class (goldsmiths, perfume-makers, merchants).  Many were able to repair the section in front of their homes, which was not only convenient but would likely have encouraged a job well done.  A clear sense of the unity of the people for a common purpose in fulfillment of God's Plan and Promises comes through.

Passages like these, with so much detail, just point to the authenticity of the Bible.   This also shows that God cares about the individual, and that the work of these people was honored.  It was interesting that this passage also showed that our past should not be obstacles to our ability to serve God, for Malkijah son of Harim (vs 11) was previously listed one of those who had sinned by taking foreign wives (Ezra 10:31) and yet here, he is participating in the rebuilding and repairing.

As I was preparing for the lesson, I came across a sermon text that explored the answer to the question of why they were rebuilding and repairing.  Nehemiah chps 1 and 2 had talked about the people living in reproach; and this particular sermon pointed out that because Jerusalem was associated with God, the need for restoration of the city should have been motivated by concern for how it reflected the honor and glory of God.  This could give us insight behind why it affected Nehemiah so deeply, when he heard that the city walls and gates were still in ruins and disrepair; and what motivated him to take action.

In applying this example of REPAIRING and REBUILDING in our lives, it is important to remember to start with consecration to the LORD.   We can also start "close to home" and enlist the help of others, particularly godly leadership.  To repair means to encourage and make strong, which would be beneficial in all areas of life.