Nehemiah 2:17-18

After getting acclimated in Jerusalem for three days and surveying the ruins of the walls and gates, Nehemiah is ready to reveal the true reason why he has come to Jerusalem under the king’s authority. He gathers the people together to present his vision for the future of Jerusalem.

Then I said to them, “You see the trouble we are in: Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been burned with fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace.” I also told them about the gracious hand of my God on me and what the king had said to me.

They replied, “Let us start rebuilding.” So they began this good work. Nehemiah 2:17-18 NIV

By proceeding with quiet caution and avoiding the naysayers, Nehemiah is able to speak to the people without his intentions being sabotaged before he can lay out his vision. First, he states the obvious: Jerusalem is in ruins and “we” are living in disgrace. Notice that even though he has been in Jerusalem only a few days, he still considers himself to be part of the inhabitants who are in dire straits. Secondly, he presents the only obvious choice-do something about it.

While we are not told every word of Nehemiah’s speech, we must assume that he was as prepared to speak to the people as he was to speak to King Artaxerxes in chapter 1. I believe he had a detailed answer for every question or doubt, he had a detailed plan to take on such an enormous project, and he had a testimony to tell of how God made all it possible. It is no surprise then that people responded with enthusiasm for the work. How could they say no when God was on their side working on their behalf?

Questions to consider:
What genius leadership skills do you see Nehemiah using with the inhabitants and leaders?
How can you apply these skills in your life?