Rebuilding the Ruined Walls
But now I said to them, “You know very well what trouble we are in. Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been destroyed by fire. Let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem and end this disgrace!” Nehemiah 2:17 NLT
In Ezra 10 and Nehemiah 1 and 2, we see two great leaders facing the painful reality of their people. While Ezra confronted the sin and bad decisions that had corrupted the families of Israel, Nehemiah received the sad news that the walls of Jerusalem were still in ruins and the people were in great distress. Far from ignoring the problem or being filled with apathy, Nehemiah wept, prayed, fasted, and then rose up with a God-backed action plan to restore the city. In our daily lives, we also face fallen walls in our marriage, in finances, or in our spiritual life, but this passage teaches us how to rise from the ashes and rebuild our future successfully.
- Recognize the reality without ignoring the problem Both Ezra and Nehemiah did not close their eyes to the bad decisions or the ruins of their nation. In order to experience true restoration in our family, spiritual, or financial life, we must first be honest and recognize which walls are torn down. We cannot repair what we refuse to confront.
- Pain should lead us to prayer, not to complaining When Nehemiah heard the bad news, he sat down to weep, but immediately took his burden to God in prayer. Instead of becoming bitter, depressed, or complaining about the situation of the world, the economy, or our home, we should seek the favor and direction of the Lord, because only from Him comes our true help.
- Have an action plan and act with wisdom Nehemiah not only prayed, but he also prepared to act. He set his heart, presented himself before the king, and asked for the necessary resources and letters of passage. God answers our prayers, but He also expects us to be diligent, make an effort, and present clear steps to rebuild our lives and fulfill the purpose for which He brought us to this earth.
- Work as a team and in unity Upon arriving in Jerusalem, Nehemiah inspired the people by saying: “Come, let us rebuild!” He did not try to do the work alone or take all the glory. Great successes in the church, in business, or in the family require that we leave selfishness behind and learn to work in harmony with the people God has placed in our circle of influence.
- Trust in the good hand of God Nehemiah testified how the gracious hand of God had backed him at all times and opened impossible doors. Despite our past mistakes or current difficulties, if we align ourselves with the divine will and decide to do the right thing, God’s grace will accompany us to ensure that our rebuilding work is a resounding success.
We do not have to settle for living among the ruins of failure or discouragement. Just as God raised up Ezra and Nehemiah to restore the dignity, purity, and protection of His people, He has empowered us with His Holy Spirit to restore everything that has been damaged in us. By maintaining a life of constant prayer, taking responsibility for our actions, and joining forces with our spiritual family, we will see those fallen walls rise again, bringing much joy to our home and giving all honor and glory to God.
But now I said to them, “You know very well what trouble we are in. Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been destroyed by fire. Let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem and end this disgrace!” Nehemiah 2:17 NLT
Think About It:
- What walls in your life (communication in marriage, finances, health, prayer life) are currently in ruins and need urgent rebuilding?
- Are you taking your worries to God in prayer before trying to solve them or getting angry in your own strength?
- Take a step of faith this week: talk to someone wise and trusted who can help you or join you to start rebuilding that specific area of your life.