Nehemiah 3: Many Hands Make Lighter Work
A GIFTED LEADER can motivate others, but a job usually gets done because of prayer and unity among believers. This is so primarily because vision is spiritual and not material. When there is a lot of mundane work, like repairing a badly damaged wall, there must be unity for the job to be done. People need to feel they are part of the decision and the process. To miss this step of getting people "on board" dooms most projects to failure. This chapter shows how much the Israelites desired to work.
Warming Up to God
Where are you today, figuratively, with the Lord? Take stock of yourself in relationship with him, confessing your sins and acknowledging his grace for you. He is listening and desires to talk with you today.
Read Nehemiah 3. »
Discovering the Word
- This chapter describes the hard work of building the wall around Jerusalem and repairing the gates. List the groups or individuals in this chapter who give themselves to the work.
- What are some of the occupations of the repairers?
- What was the place of women in this work (v. 12)?
- From the chapter, what seems to be the motivation for people to work on their part of the wall?
- Was Nehemiah privileged to have everyone committed to the work (v. 5)? Explain.
Applying the Word
- How do you feel when facing what seems to be an impossible task—especially when there doesn't seem to be commitment from those you are working with?
- How has cooperation played a significant part in your church or fellowship group's success in ministry?
- Do you feel you are as motivated to work in your church or fellowship as this group of people is? Explain your response.
Responding in Prayer
Ask the Lord to give you a helper or partner in your ministry—and ask him to teach you both how to work together.
For Further Study
The Community of the King by Howard A. Snyder