Nehemiah 13:31

I also arranged for contributions of wood at the appointed times, and for the firstfruits. Remember me, O my God, with favor.

Study Bible

I also arranged
The Hebrew root for "arranged" is "קוּם" (qum), which means to establish or set up. Nehemiah's leadership is evident here as he takes proactive steps to ensure the continuity of worship practices. This reflects a deep commitment to the spiritual and communal life of Israel, emphasizing the importance of order and preparation in serving God.

for the wood offering
The "wood offering" was a unique provision for the temple, ensuring that there was always wood available for the sacrifices. Historically, this was a communal responsibility, as seen in Nehemiah 10:34, where families took turns providing wood. This highlights the collective effort required in worship and the importance of each member's contribution to the community's spiritual life.

at appointed times
The phrase "appointed times" refers to specific, divinely ordained occasions for worship and sacrifice. The Hebrew word "מוֹעֵד" (moed) signifies a set time or season, often used in the context of festivals and sacred assemblies. This underscores the importance of regular, disciplined worship and the rhythm of life centered around God's timing.

and for the firstfruits
The "firstfruits" were offerings of the first and best of the harvest, symbolizing gratitude and acknowledgment of God's provision. Biblically, this practice is rooted in the law (Exodus 23:19) and represents a heart of thankfulness and trust in God's continued blessing. It serves as a reminder of the priority of God in all aspects of life.

Remember me, O my God, with favor
Nehemiah's plea, "Remember me," is a personal prayer for divine acknowledgment and grace. The Hebrew word "זָכַר" (zakar) means to remember or call to mind, often used in covenantal contexts. Nehemiah seeks God's favor, "חֶסֶד" (chesed), which denotes loving-kindness or mercy. This reflects a humble reliance on God's grace, recognizing that all efforts and reforms are ultimately dependent on His approval and blessing. Nehemiah's prayer is a model of seeking God's recognition and favor in all endeavors, trusting in His faithful love.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
The central figure in this passage, Nehemiah was a Jewish leader who played a crucial role in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls and the spiritual renewal of the people. He was a man of prayer and action, deeply committed to God's laws.

2. Jerusalem
The city where these events take place. It was the center of Jewish worship and identity, and its restoration was vital for the Jewish people.

3. The Supply of Wood
Nehemiah organized the provision of wood for temple services, which was essential for maintaining the worship practices as prescribed in the Law of Moses.

4. The Firstfruits
These were offerings given to God from the first yield of the harvest, symbolizing gratitude and dependence on God.

5. God
The ultimate focus of Nehemiah's actions and prayers. Nehemiah seeks God's favor, demonstrating his reliance on divine approval and blessing.

Teaching Points

Commitment to God's Work
Nehemiah's dedication to organizing the supply of wood and firstfruits shows the importance of practical steps in supporting worship and obedience to God.

Prayerful Dependence
Nehemiah's prayer, "Remember me, O my God, with favor," highlights the necessity of seeking God's approval and blessing in all endeavors.

Stewardship and Provision
The arrangement for resources reflects the principle of stewardship, ensuring that God's work is sustained through careful planning and provision.

Restoration of Worship
Nehemiah's actions underscore the need to restore and maintain proper worship practices, aligning with biblical commands.

Legacy of Faithfulness
Nehemiah's plea for God to remember him suggests a desire to leave a legacy of faithfulness and obedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Nehemiah's organization of resources for the temple challenge us to consider our own contributions to our local church or community?

2. In what ways can we apply Nehemiah's example of prayerful dependence on God in our daily lives?

3. How does the concept of firstfruits in Nehemiah 13:31 relate to our modern understanding of giving and stewardship?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that our worship practices are aligned with biblical principles, as Nehemiah did?

5. How can we cultivate a legacy of faithfulness in our own lives, similar to Nehemiah's desire for God to remember him with favor?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 6:12-13
This passage discusses the perpetual fire on the altar, which required a constant supply of wood, connecting to Nehemiah's arrangement for wood supply.

Proverbs 3:9-10
These verses emphasize honoring God with the firstfruits, aligning with Nehemiah's commitment to restoring this practice.

Malachi 3:10
This scripture speaks about bringing tithes into the storehouse, which relates to Nehemiah's efforts to ensure the temple's needs were met.