Key Verse: Nehemiah 7:1-6
The people worked together as one, in response to the call from the LORD. There was no separation between a musician, a priest, or a menial worker. They were on their mission together! And when they completed their works, they had to get back to fulfilling their real call. Sometimes, we have to lose things that we hold on to. It can be our position, job or sometimes GOD may take away our talents so that we can together, be productive for GOD. We can never expect to do productive work if we stick to our own abilities! We have to empty ourselves so that we can be used productively by GOD.
Nehemiah shared his burden among the people who were Spirit-filled, faithful and God-fearing than the others. These can be considered as basic qualities that a man of GOD must possess. We may see a lot of people who possess these qualities, but, Nehemiah appointed such people who were much better than the rest of the people. “For he was a faithful man and feared God more than many.” (Vs. 2)
We can see a similar situation in Acts 6. Seven men were appointed to serve at the tables. They too had a special anointing to do their works. We may have a desire to do the works of the LORD, but if we don’t have a proper conviction that we are called for this particular work, don’t step in. Stepping into the work of the LORD is not a simple task. The assurance of GOD’s call keeps you firm in the work amidst all troubles. We can see that Nehemiah appointed people as gatekeepers, singers, guards, Levites to their positions, and also appointed leaders to the citadel. He restored worship and security in Jerusalem. The people who came into the city would get a feeling that they are safe under the wings of the LORD. They would give glory to GOD on seeing the amazing restoration that the LORD had done through Nehemiah and the people.
Nehemiah withdrew himself from the limelight after everything was back in place. He was upfront to face troubles and to motivate the people, but he went back into the background when he saw success. He didn’t want to credit the appreciation for himself, but he shared the burden and the glory with others.
After appointing the people for different tasks, Nehemiah gave instructions and he moved to do other things with the guidance of the LORD. “So my God put it into my heart to assemble the nobles, the officials and the common people for registration by families.” (Vs. 5)
Practical Living: Involve yourself in fulfilling responsibilities that are guided by the LORD. Never stay in the limelight to get applauded by people. Be a faithful leader and a servant of GOD where GOD has placed you.
