From Splendor to Shadow

God Gave Nehemiah Courage

In that brief moment of prayer Nehemiah gathered courage to ask Artaxerxes for authority to build up Jerusalem and make it once more a strong city. Momentous results to the Jewish nation hung on this request. “And,” Nehemiah declared, “the king granted me what I asked, for the good hand of my God was upon me.” RSV. SS 327.2

Nehemiah proceeded to make arrangements to ensure the success of the enterprise. While he knew that many of his countrymen would rejoice in his success, he feared that some might arouse the jealousy of their enemies and perhaps bring about the defeat of the undertaking. SS 327.3

His request to the king had been so favorably received that Nehemiah was encouraged to ask for still further assistance. He asked for a military escort to give authority to his mission. He obtained royal letters to the governors of the territory through which he must pass on his way to Judea and a letter to the keeper of the king's forest in Lebanon directing him to furnish timber. Nehemiah was careful to have the authority accorded him clearly defined. God's children are not only to pray in faith but to work with diligent and provident care. SS 327.4

Nehemiah did not regard his duty done when he had wept and prayed before the Lord. He united his petitions with holy endeavor. The means that Nehemiah lacked he solicited from those able to bestow. And the Lord is still willing to move on the hearts of those in possession of His goods, in behalf of the cause of truth. Those who labor for Him are to avail themselves of these gifts by which the light of truth shall go to many benighted lands. The donors may have no faith in Christ, no acquaintance with His Word; but their gifts are not on this account to be refused. SS 328.1