Background and Context:
Nehemiah, a Jewish exile, served as the cupbearer to King Artaxerxes I of Persia during the 5th century BC. This position was one of significant trust and influence, as the cupbearer was responsible for tasting and serving wine to the king, ensuring it was not poisoned. Nehemiah's account is recorded in the Book of Nehemiah, which is part of the historical books of the Old Testament. The narrative begins in the Persian capital of Susa, where Nehemiah learns of the dire state of Jerusalem, his ancestral city.

Scriptural Account:
The account of Nehemiah's sadness before the king is found in Nehemiah 2:1-8. Nehemiah 2:1-2 states, "In the month of Nisan, in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when wine was brought before him, I took the wine and gave it to the king. I had never been sad in his presence before, so the king asked me, 'Why is your face sad, though you are not ill? This can be nothing but sadness of heart.'"

Significance of Nehemiah's Sadness:
Nehemiah's visible sadness was significant because it was unusual and potentially dangerous to display sorrow in the presence of the king. Persian kings were often surrounded by an atmosphere of joy and celebration, and any deviation from this could be interpreted as disloyalty or dissatisfaction. Nehemiah's sadness, however, was a reflection of his deep concern for Jerusalem, whose walls lay in ruins and whose gates had been burned with fire (Nehemiah 1:3).

Nehemiah's Prayer and Preparation:
Before appearing sad before the king, Nehemiah had spent time in prayer and fasting, seeking God's guidance and favor. Nehemiah 1:4 records, "When I heard these words, I sat down and wept. I mourned for days, fasting and praying before the God of heaven." This period of spiritual preparation was crucial, as Nehemiah sought divine intervention for the opportunity to present his request to the king.

The King's Response:
King Artaxerxes' response to Nehemiah's sadness was one of concern and inquiry, rather than anger or suspicion. This favorable reaction can be seen as an answer to Nehemiah's prayers. Nehemiah 2:4 states, "Then the king asked me, 'What is your request?' So I prayed to the God of heaven." Nehemiah's immediate prayer before responding to the king highlights his reliance on God even in moments of opportunity.

Nehemiah's Request:
Nehemiah boldly requested permission to return to Jerusalem to rebuild its walls. He also asked for letters of safe passage and resources for the construction. Nehemiah 2:5-8 details his request: "And I said to the king, 'If it pleases the king, and if your servant has found favor in your sight, let him send me to the city in Judah where my fathers are buried, so that I may rebuild it.'"

Divine Favor and Provision:
The king granted Nehemiah's requests, demonstrating God's providential hand in the affairs of His people. Nehemiah 2:8 concludes, "And because the gracious hand of my God was upon me, the king granted my requests." This divine favor was instrumental in the subsequent rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, a task that Nehemiah would lead with determination and faith.

Theological Implications:
Nehemiah's sadness before the king and the subsequent events underscore the importance of prayer, preparation, and reliance on God in the face of daunting challenges. Nehemiah's account is a testament to God's faithfulness and His ability to work through individuals in positions of influence to accomplish His purposes. The narrative also highlights the significance of godly leadership and the impact of one person's faith and courage on the restoration of a community.