Nehemiah 5 While dealing with opposition from external forces, Nehemiah also found it necessary to deal with internal complaints.  Wealthy lenders within the Jewish community were taking advantage of the poorer citizens, leaving them destitute and hungry.  It became so flagrant that complaints reached all the way to the ears of Nehemiah, who was able to act with wisdom and compassion to remedy the volatile situation. Nehemiah 5:1-6

• He heard and empathized with those who were hurting. 

• He pondered the matter, confronted the trouble-makers, and set a plan in motion to fix the problem—including a system of accountability.

Nehemiah 5:14-19

• He personally set a positive example to be followed.

Christ always guides us toward greater service to others, especially those who are hurting.  

Nehemiah 3 In our study of Nehemiah, all the material of chapters 1 and 2 has led up to the activity of chapter 3.  Here we are treated to a rather detailed description of the rebuilding process of Jerusalem’s gates and walls, approximately 40 sections in all.  But what might seem tedious at first glance is actually full of wonderful lessons and truths! God’s good work gets done through . . .

• A People with a Common Purpose.
• A People with a Strategic Plan.
• A People with Able Leadership.
• A People with Vested Interest.
• A People with a Willingness to Work.

Nehemiah 1:1-11 The book of Nehemiah gives us a record of how the wall of Jerusalem was repaired following the time of the Babylonian Exile.  The written account comes from Nehemiah, an official in the court of the Persian King and a respected leader among the Jewish people.  It provides a wealth of historical information, but also some important spiritual lessons about pursuing God’s purpose for our lives and our church.

• Nehemiah’s Life (1:1)
• Nehemiah’s Curiosity (1:2)
• Nehemiah’s Heart (1:3-4)
• Nehemiah’s Prayer (1:5-11)

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”  -  James 1:5 Proverbs 2 records the words of Solomon to his son, and to all who would seek to live their lives guided by godly wisdom. Proverbs 2:5, 9-12 - The word “THEN” points us to the results. Proverbs 2:6-8 - The word “FOR” helps us understand why we should seek wisdom.