Lord,
You are a God of details and individuals. You knew who each person was in the city, in the tribes, and in Your service. I praise You for being so personal with each of us, and caring about the individuals in the nation rather than just the nation as a whole.
At the end of chapter 12, Nehemiah talks about the choirs and the joyous singing and celebration. It says that “the joy of the people of Jerusalem could be heard far away.” That should be my testimony. You have given me salvation and declared me righteous! My joy should be permanent in my life, not based on circumstances. Please help me to lean into joy even when my circumstances are difficult.
Lord, the book of Nehemiah ends with Nehemiah confronting the people or leaders who have sinned against You and Your commands. He faithfully followed Your commandments and led others to do the same. Thank you for the example of Nehemiah. Thank you for giving us his story in the Bible. Please help me to be like Nehemiah, caring more about You and Your commands than the people around me. Please help me to not shy away from confrontation when it is to bring people back to you. Please give me the wisdom and courage that Nehemiah had. I love you. Amen.