One of the most encouraging stories in the Old Testament is the story of Nehemiah.

Tied in closely with the book of Ezra, this short piece of the Old Testament is an amazing bit of history.

The nation of Judah was taken into captivity by Babylon somewhere around 587 BC. Fifty years later, Cyrus sent some of the people back to rebuild the temple of God. During this time, Zerubbabel rebuilt the temple, Ezra brought the Law back into the life of Israel, and Nehemiah rebuilt the wall around Jerusalem, making it secure in the face of intense conflict and opposition.

Nehemiah’s abilities in administration and perseverance helped him mold the Jewish people back into the people of God so they could obey God’s commands and have a distinction from the people around them.

This is really the beauty of the story. Not only did Nehemiah have to rebuild a wall around the city, he had to rebuild a people to the point where they could stand on their own as an independent nation, following God’s lead.

Although the book is only thirteen short chapters in length, it is full of sage wisdom and leadership advice. You will gain much by studying this incredible little book.

Here are a few of my favorite passages from the book of Nehemiah:

Nehemiah’s Prayer – Nehemiah 1:5-11

The book begins with an eloquent and beautiful prayer by Nehemiah on the nation’s behalf. Containing both worship and confession, Nehemiah seeks God’s guidance for the people as they begin the transition from Babylon back to home. I encourage you to take a few minutes, and if you don’t read any of the rest of this book, read these verses. They are extremely impacting.

…but if you return to Me and keep My commandments and do them, though those of you who have been scattered were in the most remote part of the heavens, I will gather them from there and will bring them to the place where I have chosen to cause My name to dwell. – Nehemiah 1:9

The Reading Of The Law- Nehemiah 8:1-12

As the people rebuilt the wall, and prepared to begin a new, secure life in their homeland, Ezra publicly read the Law, the Word of God. The people were attentive and ready to respond to God’s leading. As they read, the priests instructed the people on what they were hearing, and how to live by those words. After many years of captivity, the people suffered from a biblical illiteracy, much like we do today. Understanding Scripture is a critical aspect to living a life of faith, and it requires a commitment to spending prayerful time in the Word.

He read from it before the square which was in front of the Water Gate from early morning until midday, in the presence of men and women, those who could understand; and all the people were attentive to the book of the law. – Nehemiah 8:3

Remember – Nehemiah 13:14, 22, and 31

Three different times in the final chapter of the book, Nehemiah inserts some “mini-prayers.” Remember me, and do not blot out what I have done… Remember me, and show mercy… Remember me with favor… Nehemiah wants to make sure that God doesn’t forget his work and his efforts, and that they came from pure motives. The final phrase seems a fitting way to end the book. It is literally translated as “Remember me, o my God, for good.” It is a model prayer, and would be a fitting prayer for anyone who has loved God with all their heart and lived out a life committed to serving him, and doing that which is right in God’s sight. While not an easy life to live, it is a desirable life to achieve.

Remember me for this, O my God, and do not blot out my loyal deeds which I have performed for the house of my God and its services. – Nehemiah 13:14

For this also remember me, O my God, and have compassion on me according to the greatness of Your lovingkindness. – Nehemiah 13:22

Remember me, O my God, for good. – Nehemiah 13:31

Question: What are your favorite stories from the book of Nehemiah? You can leave a comment by clicking here.