The Attributes of Nehemiah

Lesson Content

In II Chronicles chapter 36, we read that Nebuchadnezzar destroyed the city of Jerusalem, set the temple on fire and took the Jews captive to Babylon. Nehemiah was also one of the Jews taken captive. He was king Artaxerxes’ cup- bearer. On hearing of the miserable state of the Jews who still remained in Jerusalem he mourned and prayed to the Lord. Later, he took permission from the king, and returned to Jerusalem, viewed the broken walls and encouraged the people to build them.

1. Though Nehemiah was in the palace, he was burdened about his people and his city (Neh.1:1-3).

2. He was a prayer warrior (Neh.1:4-11).

3. He was humble (confession of sins) (Neh.1:6,7).

4. He was grateful (remembers redemption) (Neh.1:10).

5. He did not hand over his work to others, but did it himself (Neh.2:12-16).

6. He encouraged the people (Neh.2:17,18).

7. He was not discouraged even when enemies conspired against him. He took precautionary measures (Neh.4:7-18).

8. He had firm confidence in God (Neh.2:18-20).

9. He had the fear of God (did not take from the people the bread of the governor). He did not exercise unlawful authority over them (Neh.5:14,15).

10. Though the enemies repeatedly threatened them, he revealed the responsibility he had concerning his work (Neh.6:2-9).

11. He did not forsake his work and flee for fear of losing his life (Neh.6:10,11).

12. He was zealous concerning the law of the Lord (Neh.13:23-27,30).

Moral

Like Nehemiah we too should be zealous about the people of God, and the things of God, be prayer warriors, have confidence in God and have responsibility concerning our ministry and work.