30 So I purified them from everything foreign, and assigned duties to the priests and the Levites, each in his work, 31 and I arranged for the delivery of wood at appointed times and for the first fruits. Remember me, my God, for good.
Nehemiah 13:30-31 (NASB)
In conclusion
As we arrive at the end of this wonderful account of the life and times of Nehemiah, we step back for a brief summary. “Nehemiah proves that seemingly impossible things are possible through prayer and hard work when people determine to trust and obey God, and when they put His interests first.” (planobiblechapel.org) What are these impossible things?
Summary of reforms
Today’s passage provides a summary of the reforms Nehemiah instituted. As we’ve seen the past few days. He:
- Kicked out the foreigners
- Cleansed the temple (from Tobia the enemy)
- Restored the tithe
- Restored the Sabbath and Preserved the Sabbath
- Purged the people of foreign wives and Purified the Priests of foreign wives
He also previously assigned duties to the priests and Levites, arranged for the wood offerings for the altar and the first-fruits offerings.
The Wall
Of course the “main thing” the book of Nehemiah is known for is building the wall. Against great odds but with a great God, Nehemiah led the returnees to re-build the protective wall around Jerusalem in record time.
The Man
Nehemiah was one of the greatest patriot leaders of the Jewish nation of all time. Clarke’s commentary provides this nice epitaph: “For … philanthropy, patriotism, prudence, courage, zeal, humanity, and every virtue that constitutes a great mind, and proves a soul in deep communion with God, Nehemiah will ever stand conspicuous among the greatest men of the Jewish nation, and an [example] worthy to be copied by the first patriots in every nation under heaven.” Let’s seek, as appropriate, to be that kind of leader. Certainly, we can pray for Nehemiahs to lead us.
Remembered by God
Nehemiah sought to be “remembered by God, for good”. He mentioned this prayer a number of times. What greater reward is there than this? I challenge you to use your talents to do the Father’s will. Those who do will hear, “Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter the joy of your master.” (Matthew 25:14-30)
