Nehemiah 13:14

Remember me for this, O my God, and do not blot out my deeds of loving devotion for the house of my God and for its services.

Study Bible

Remember me for this, O my God
This phrase reflects Nehemiah's personal prayer and plea to God, highlighting his desire for divine recognition and approval. Nehemiah often turns to God in prayer throughout the book, demonstrating his reliance on divine guidance and support. This plea for remembrance is similar to other biblical figures who sought God's acknowledgment, such as King Hezekiah in 2 Kings 20:3. It underscores the biblical theme of seeking God's favor and the importance of a personal relationship with Him.

and do not blot out my deeds of loving devotion
The concept of "blotting out" is significant in biblical literature, often associated with the removal of sin or the erasure of one's name from a record (Exodus 32:32-33). Here, Nehemiah is concerned with the preservation of his righteous actions, emphasizing the importance of deeds done in faith and love. The term "loving devotion" can be linked to the Hebrew word "chesed," which denotes steadfast love and faithfulness, qualities that are central to God's character and expected of His followers.

for the house of my God
The "house of my God" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, which was central to Jewish worship and identity. Nehemiah's reforms were aimed at restoring the temple's sanctity and ensuring proper worship practices. This focus on the temple aligns with the broader biblical narrative of God's dwelling place among His people, as seen in the construction of the tabernacle (Exodus 25:8) and Solomon's temple (1 Kings 6). The temple also serves as a type of Christ, who is the ultimate dwelling place of God among humanity (John 2:19-21).

and for its services
The "services" refer to the various duties and rituals associated with temple worship, including sacrifices, offerings, and the maintenance of the temple. Nehemiah's concern for these services highlights the importance of proper worship and adherence to God's commandments. This focus on temple services can be connected to the Levitical laws outlined in the Pentateuch, which provided detailed instructions for worship and service (Leviticus 1-7). Nehemiah's dedication to these services underscores the need for order and reverence in worship, a principle that carries forward into New Testament teachings on worship in spirit and truth (John 4:24).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
The central figure in this passage, Nehemiah was a Jewish leader and cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes. He played a crucial role in rebuilding Jerusalem's walls and reforming the community.

2. Jerusalem
The city where Nehemiah's reforms took place. It was the center of Jewish worship and identity, and its restoration was vital for the Jewish people.

3. The House of God
Refers to the Temple in Jerusalem, which was the focal point of Jewish worship and religious life.

4. Reforms
Nehemiah's efforts to restore proper worship and adherence to the Law, including the purification of the Temple and the reestablishment of the Sabbath.

5. God
The ultimate authority to whom Nehemiah appeals, seeking divine remembrance and favor for his faithful service.

Teaching Points

Faithful Service
Nehemiah's dedication to God's house serves as a model for believers to commit themselves to the service of God and His church.

Divine Remembrance
Just as Nehemiah sought God's remembrance, Christians can trust that God sees and values their efforts and devotion.

Prioritizing Worship
Nehemiah's reforms emphasize the importance of maintaining the purity and priority of worship in our lives.

Perseverance in Leadership
Nehemiah's leadership amidst challenges encourages believers to persevere in their God-given roles, trusting in God's support.

Seeking God's Approval
Nehemiah's plea for divine remembrance reminds us to seek God's approval above human recognition.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Nehemiah's plea for remembrance reflect his relationship with God, and how can we apply this in our own prayer life?

2. In what ways does Nehemiah's dedication to the Temple challenge us to prioritize our own places of worship and community?

3. How do Nehemiah's actions in this chapter demonstrate the importance of godly leadership, and what qualities can we emulate in our own leadership roles?

4. How does the concept of divine remembrance in Nehemiah 13:14 connect with other biblical assurances of God's faithfulness, such as in Hebrews 6:10?

5. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our service to God is motivated by love and devotion, rather than seeking human recognition?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 6:14-15
This passage highlights the rebuilding of the Temple, which parallels Nehemiah's efforts to restore Jerusalem and its religious practices.

Psalm 25:7
This verse speaks of God remembering His mercy and love, similar to Nehemiah's plea for God to remember his devotion.

Hebrews 6:10
This New Testament verse reassures believers that God does not forget their work and love shown in His name, echoing Nehemiah's request for remembrance.