Brent Ritter writes on Nehemiah 1 In the 5th century BC there was a pretty serious problem in Judah. Nebuchadnezzar had destroyed all of Jerusalem and its walls over 140 years previously and since that time the city had been vulnerable to attack and raids from other countries and kingdoms. The people had been exiled when the city was destroyed and Nehemiah had grown up in King Artaxerxes’ Persia. Although he had grown in exile in what would be modern day Iran, Nehemiah still had a great love for his homeland of Judah and for the people there. Nehemiah must have been a particularly recognized person. Although away from his homeland and a foreigner, he had been given the highly trusted and dangerous job of the kings cupbearer. Not only was he near the King each and every day, he was in charge of testing the food and drink of Artaxerxes. When you’re the ruler of a massive empire full of both jealous nationals and exiles of conquered nations, it’s pretty likely you’d have someone out to get you and poison might be the easiest way to do the deed. A cupbearer was a trusted position, but also held by someone who must have been viewed as expendable. As this book of the Bible opens we get to see that hearbeat of a true servant, both of man and of God. Nehemiah is contrite for his people and grounded in humility. However, he also knows the true power of God to affect change. The walls must be rebuilt to protect his brothers and sisters in Jerusalem and there is no Hebrew any closer to the King than Nehemiah. As the chapter closes Nehemiah prays a beautiful prayer that ends with these words in vs. 11: 11 Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man.” Nehemiah knew the right person. Nehemiah was in the right place. Nehemiah had the right mindset. Nehemiah knew God could use him and he was ready to step out in faith. It’s an amazing thing to be in the path of God’s plan and sovereignty. Sometimes you’re not where you think you want to be or should be. Sometimes you’re just a simple person with a simple place in the world, but you may have been positioned by God for an extravagant plan. So, do you know the right person? Are you in the right place? Do you have the right mindset and know that God can use you? How are you a cupbearer in this world?
Posted on: Sun, 14 Jul 2013 09:37:43 +0000
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