What is the scope of your vision and assignment?
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | October 28, 2023 | Nehemiah 2:11-15
KEY VERSE:
So I went up in the night by the valley, and viewed the wall; then I turned back and entered by the Valley Gate, and so returned. Nehemiah 2:15
MESSAGE: Engaging in a battle without understanding the adversary may lead to unexpected challenges and potential defeat. Likewise, the wisdom of Scripture advises those building a house to assess the costs beforehand. It is prudent, then, to thoroughly study and gain an overview of any project before initiation, understanding the requirements and estimating the complete cost for a successful accomplishment.
In today's devotional, we learn that Nehemiah, upon arriving in Jerusalem, spent three days there. Then, on the third night, he decided to explore the devastated city. One might question why he waited three days before examining the ruins, given his deep concern for Jerusalem and its people. Scripture doesn't explicitly state it, but Nehemiah might have spent three days in prayer before venturing out at night. The subsequent verse (verse 12) holds a crucial clue: "He told no one what God had put in his heart to do at Jerusalem." It suggests that Nehemiah may have received additional instructions during those three days of seeking God's guidance.
Subsequently, he began to survey the entire land, assessing the extent of the damage and the scale of the work required in Jerusalem. Nehemiah meticulously inspected every part of the city, gaining firsthand information to align his vision with the actual conditions on the ground.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
The vision and assignment bestowed upon us by God need to be clearly defined, ensuring clarity and precision to prevent any deviation in our efforts. Consequently, it is crucial to delve deeper, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the scope of our assignments. Clarifying our God-given vision enables efficient channelling of energy and resources, leading to the purposeful achievement of divine assignments.
PRAYER:
Dear Lord, guide my heart in my mission to find my assignment. Order my steps and show me the path that fulfils your purpose for my life. May I not miss my way in my quest to honour you with all I have and with all I am. For your Holy name’s sake. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSINGS. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: NIGHT The Hebrew word for "night" in Nehemiah 2:15 is "לַ֫יְלָה" (laylah), which refers to the period between sunset and sunrise. Beyond its temporal aspect, Hebrew often employs "night" metaphorically to represent periods of adversity, challenges, or spiritual darkness.
In Nehemiah 2:15, Nehemiah inspects the walls of Jerusalem during the night. The nighttime setting adds layers of meaning to the narrative. The darkness symbolizes the state of ruin and desolation of Jerusalem's walls, emphasizing the gravity of the task Nehemiah is undertaking.
In other parts of the Bible, the word NIGHT is used to express:
Symbol of Adversity: Throughout the Bible, "night" is metaphorically used to depict challenging times. Psalm 30:5 says, "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning," highlighting the transient nature of difficulties.
Spiritual Darkness: Night is often associated with spiritual darkness or the absence of divine guidance. John 9:4 (NKJV) records Jesus saying, "I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work."
In the context of Nehemiah 2:15, the term "night" carries significance beyond its literal meaning:
The symbolism of Night: Nehemiah's inspection of the walls at night signifies his commitment to addressing the adversity and challenges facing Jerusalem. It illustrates his determination to bring about a transformation even in the darkest times.
Temporal Symbolism: The literal nightfall represents a specific moment in Nehemiah's mission, emphasizing the urgency and immediacy of the restoration work.
The metaphor for Spiritual Restoration: Nehemiah's nighttime inspection can be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual rebuilding of a community. It suggests that restoration often begins in the metaphorical "night," in moments of challenge and difficulty.
Reflections:
How does the symbolism of "night" in Nehemiah's context inspire us to approach challenges and adversities in our own lives with a sense of purpose and determination?
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