“The words of Nehemiah” –vs.1 Nehemiah “Comfort from God” Born in exile but lived for God Cup-bearer to the King of Persia Ezra was a student and preacher, Nehemiah was a soldier and statesman Became governor of the people of Jerusalem Known for his courage, leadership, resolve and dependence upon God Rebuilt what was torn down

“I was in the fortress city of Susa” –vs.1 Place of peace, power, protection and provision

“I questioned them about Jerusalem and the Jewish remnant” –vs.2 Nehemiah was concerned for the people of God and place of God The Condition of God’s People “The survivors in the province, who returned from the exile, are in great trouble and disgrace.” –vs.3

“I questioned them about Jerusalem and the Jewish remnant” –vs.2 Nehemiah was concerned for the people of God and place of God The Condition of God’s Place “…Jerusalem’s wall has been broken down, and its gates have been burned down.” –vs.3

“When I heard these words…” –vs.4 Nehemiah sat down, wept and mourned for many days. –vs.4 James 4:7-9 “Be miserable and mourn and weep. Your laughter must change to mourning and your joy to sorrow.” –vs.9

“When I heard these words…” –vs.4 For a number of days Nehemiah fasted and prayed. –vs.4 Luke 6:12 “…He (Jesus) went out to the mountain to pray and spent all night in prayer to God.”

“…praying before the God of heaven…” –vs.5 It was a prayer of: 1.Adoration–vs.5 2.Remembrance – vs.5 3.Request – vs.6 4.Repetition –vs.6 5.Confession –vs.7 6.Pleading –vs.8-11

“…I was the king’s cupbearer.” –vs.11 Nehemiah had a transformation. He went from serving an earthly king to an Eternal King