Bible Chapter: Nehemiah 5 & 6

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    As the people were returning to their homeland and striving to reestablish their nation, there were people who were taking advantage of the needs of others.  They were making it impossible for the people to afford to live.  When Nehemiah heard of this he became very angry at how they were treating people with genuine need.  He demanded that they restore properties and not charge the interest they had been charging.  His goal was fair treatment of everyone.
    The project to rebuild the city wall was progressing.  But the enemies continued to try to stop the project.  Sanballat, Tobiah and the rest of the enemies tried to get Nehemiah sidetracked.  They called for a meeting.  They made false accusations.  Nehemiah’s reaction was that he would not leave the great work he was doing to talk with them.  There were false prophets who came trying to make him afraid.  He refused to be called away.  They completed the wall in fifty two days.  Nehemiah kept his focus on the task at hand.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    Chapter 6 ends with the statement “Tobiah sent letters to frighten me”.  We see the attacks and false accusations against Nehemiah as he worked on the wall.  Many things were done to scare and sidetrack him.  Yet, he kept his mind on his responsibilities and got the work done.  This is an excellent example to follow.  Know what God wants you to do -- keep your focus -- get the job done -- ignore the attacks.
   
3.  How can I help someone?
    Keep focusing on God’s leading in your life.  Do what He says and don’t let fear pull you away from the eternal work God has for you to accomplish.