Preparation for a great work.
A record of the first steps taken by Nehemiah in the execution of his commission.
I. HIS JOURNEY TO JERUSALEM (verses 9, 11). He no doubt lost no time in setting out; and he made the journey with suitable dignity, and in safety, owing to the escort granted by the king, and the obedience of the "governors beyond the river" to "the king's letters."
II. HIS PRELIMINARY INVESTIGATION (verses 12-15). This was—
1. Personal. He would see with his own eyes the condition of the wall, so as to judge of the practicability of his plan for restoring it.
2. Secret. Perhaps that foes without might not be able to hinder him, nor their partisans within inform them of his movements.
3. Thorough. Notwithstanding the difficulty of completing it. In all enterprises careful inquiry must precede action if they are to prosper. Our Lord enjoins those who are thinking of becoming his disciples to "count the cost;" and a similar previous consideration is necessary in endeavours to advance his kingdom. Whoever would revive, reform, or restore, must first ascertain the existing state of things, and reckon up his resources for effecting his object. "The knowledge of a disease is half its cure." Rash zeal is likely to end in failure. Only we must take heed of putting consideration in the place of action; of "thinking about" decision in religion instead of deciding; of "considering" how we can do good until the opportunity of doing it is gone.
III. HIS SUCCESSFUL APPEAL TO THE PEOPLE. Notwithstanding the ruinous condition of the wall, and the feebleness of the Jews—
1. He was confident and resolute himself. Assured that the work could be done, and prepared to do his part, and more.
2. He infused his spirit into the people.
(a) Reminding them of the present condition of the city. Ruinous, defenceless, exciting contempt.
(b) Informing them of the favourable turn which affairs had taken. God's kind interposition. The king's commission to him, and gracious words.
(c) Summoning them to join him in building the wall.
(a) Prompt and determined resolve.
(b) Mutual incitement.
(c) Confidence and courage.
"So they strengthened their hands for the good work." Observe—
1. The worth of competent leaders. The multitude helpless without them. One man, able and resolute, may turn weakness into strength, and depression into prosperity. In the work of Christ good leaders are of incalculable value. The advent of such often changes the whole aspect of things.
2. The duty of those who are fitted to be leaders. A great responsibility rests on them. Let them not decline the posts for which they are fitted on account of the expense or self-denial involved in filling them. Let them study to lead well, not for the sake of their own honour, but for the glory of Christ and the good of their brethren. Let them lead by their example as well as their speeches; so that they can say with Nehemiah, "Come, and let us build," etc.
3. The duty of the people towards them. To recognise them, welcome them thankfully, co-operate with them heartily. If the people are weak without good leaders, these are equally weak without the people. But both uniting heartily, they may work wonders.
IV. HIS TREATMENT OF ILL-DISPOSED NEIGHBOURS.
1. How they regarded his proceedings.
2. How he dealt with them.
1. Every good work will meet with opposition, if not with contempt.
2. Such opposition is best met by trust in God, earnest resolution, and increased activity.