Topical Encyclopedia Nehemiah, a prominent figure in the Old Testament, is often recognized for his leadership in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. However, his life also provides a profound example of private prayer and its significance in the life of a believer. Nehemiah's prayers are characterized by their sincerity, urgency, and reliance on God's faithfulness.Background Nehemiah served as the cupbearer to King Artaxerxes of Persia, a position of significant trust and influence. Upon hearing the distressing news about the broken walls of Jerusalem and the suffering of his people, Nehemiah's immediate response was to turn to God in prayer. This initial reaction underscores the importance of private prayer as a first resort in times of trouble. Nehemiah's Prayer Life 1. Initial Prayer (Nehemiah 1:4-11): Upon learning about Jerusalem's plight, Nehemiah's first recorded action is to weep, mourn, fast, and pray before the God of heaven. His prayer is a model of confession, adoration, and supplication. Nehemiah acknowledges the sins of Israel, including his own and his family's, and appeals to God's covenantal promises. He prays, "O Lord, let Your ear be attentive to the prayer of Your servant and to the prayer of Your servants who delight to revere Your name" (Nehemiah 1:11). This prayer reveals his deep dependence on God and his understanding of God's character. 2. Prayer for Favor (Nehemiah 2:4): When the king notices Nehemiah's sadness and inquires about it, Nehemiah offers a quick, silent prayer before responding. "Then I prayed to the God of heaven" (Nehemiah 2:4). This brief, spontaneous prayer highlights the practice of continual communion with God, even in the midst of daily activities and critical moments. 3. Prayer in the Face of Opposition (Nehemiah 4:4-5, 9): As Nehemiah and the Israelites face opposition from their enemies, he turns to prayer for protection and strength. "But we prayed to our God and posted a guard day and night to meet this threat" (Nehemiah 4:9). This demonstrates the balance between prayer and action, showing that while Nehemiah trusted in God's protection, he also took practical steps to address the threat. 4. Prayer for Justice (Nehemiah 5:19; 6:14): Nehemiah's prayers also include appeals for justice and remembrance. He asks God to remember his efforts and to deal with those who oppose the work. "Remember me favorably, O my God, for all that I have done for this people" (Nehemiah 5:19). These prayers reflect his desire for God's approval and justice rather than seeking personal vengeance. Theological Insights Nehemiah's private prayers reveal several key theological insights: · Dependence on God: Nehemiah consistently demonstrates a reliance on God for guidance, strength, and success. His prayers are rooted in the belief that God is sovereign and attentive to the cries of His people. · Confession and Repentance: Nehemiah's prayers often include confession of sin, acknowledging both personal and communal failures. This aspect of his prayer life underscores the importance of humility and repentance in approaching God. · Covenantal Faithfulness: Nehemiah appeals to God's covenant with Israel, reminding God of His promises. This reflects a deep understanding of God's faithfulness and the assurance that He will act according to His word. · Integration of Prayer and Action: Nehemiah's life exemplifies the integration of prayer with practical action. He does not use prayer as a substitute for action but as a foundation for it, seeking God's guidance and strength to carry out his responsibilities. Nehemiah's example of private prayer serves as an enduring model for believers, illustrating the power and necessity of prayer in every aspect of life, from personal struggles to communal challenges. His life encourages believers to cultivate a prayerful dependence on God, trusting in His faithfulness and sovereignty. Torrey's Topical Textbook Nehemiah 2:4Then the king said to me, For what do you make request? So I prayed to the God of heaven. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Of a Private Fast. Prayer The Prophet Nehemiah The Captivity of Judah. Upon Our Lord's SermonOn the Mount Constant, Instant, Expectant All the Day Long An Account of the Organization of the Methodist Episcopal Church ... Mongrel Religion Of the Discipline of the Church, and Its Principal Use in Censures ... Resources Questions about Prayer (All) | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the purpose of prayer? | GotQuestions.org What is a prayer circle? | GotQuestions.org Prayer: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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