This post is Day 13 in a series of studies about “Nehemiah”. I strongly suggest you begin with the introduction to this study, please click here to read it.

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Nehemiah – Day 13

Nehemiah was not disturbed or deterred by the amount of work there was to do. The testimony of Nehemiah turned the hearts of the listeners on that day. Hearing how God has given people who are not believers grace to be part of His plans can be a real encouragement.

Nehemiah 2:17-18

“Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace.” I also told them about the gracious hand of my God on me and what the king had said to me.
They replied, “Let us start rebuilding.” So they began this good work.

The Thought

Nehemiah was not disturbed or deterred by the amount of work there was to do in the broken down city. His brother and friends had prepared him well for what he would find. But still he went by night seeing for himself just how much needed to be done (See Day 11). He had also planned in advance for timber to be delivered having asked King Artaxerxes for help in providing that (Nehemiah 2:8).

I believe that it was Nehemiah’s testimony that turned the hearts of the listeners on that day. Hearing how God has given people who are not believers grace to be a part of His plans can be a real encouragement.

He would have told about his fear of speaking out and asking for time off, and then the encouragement and boldness that he received to ask for the timber and letters of passage. I see his listeners thinking as St.Paul did. “If God is for us, then who can be against us!” (Romans 8:31).

Action

Have you ever told your testimony as an encouragement to others?

Have you heard or read other testimonies that have encouraged you in your walk of faith?

Thank God for those people who have shared their experiences.

Think about some of the Biblical characters who had life changing experiences with the Lord. Give thanks for them. Ask the Lord if they have a deeper meaning for you to understand.

Pray and ask God if there is somebody you should talk to and encourage by sharing with them some of the things God has done for you.