December 5

In Nehemiah 1–3, we meet a man whose heart is broken for the brokenness of God’s people. When Nehemiah hears that Jerusalem’s walls lie in ruins, he responds not with haste but with prayer. He weeps, fasts, and confesses the sins of his people, asking God for mercy and guidance. His leadership begins on his knees. When he stands before King Artaxerxes, God opens every door—providing permission, protection, and resources. Once Nehemiah arrives in Jerusalem, he surveys the damage by night and calls the people to rebuild. The work is immense, yet chapter 3 shows families, priests, goldsmiths, and servants all taking their place on the wall. Each one contributes. The strength of their unity comes from their shared devotion to God’s purpose.

Revelation 5 lifts our eyes to the heavenly throne room, where the Lamb who was slain is declared worthy to open the scroll of God’s redemptive plan. No one in heaven or on earth is worthy except Jesus. The elders and angels fall down in worship, singing that He alone is worthy because He ransomed people for God from every tribe and nation. This vision of Christ’s glory reminds us that all our work—our prayer, our efforts, our courage—is ultimately for Him, through Him, and sustained by Him.

These passages together show us that rebuilding begins with a burden, continues with obedience, and succeeds by God’s strength. Nehemiah knew he could not rebuild a single stone without the favor of God. And Revelation reminds us that every act of faithfulness is part of a much larger story—one ultimately held in the hands of the risen Lamb.
When the work feels overwhelming, we remember the One who strengthens us. When opposition rises, we remember the One who reigns. And when we feel insignificant, we remember that our small acts of faith are woven into His eternal purposes.

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