Nehemiah 2: God’s Will was Nehemiah’s Request

Nehemiah 2 shows us how God uses ordinary servants to accomplish extraordinary purposes. Nehemiah was a cupbearer, not a king, yet his burden was covenantal, not civic pride, but God’s glory among the nations. For four months, he prayed, fasted, and waited until God opened the right opportunity. When asked by the king, Nehemiah boldly said, “Send me.” He honored authority, was wise in his approach, and rallied God’s people to rebuild despite opposition. His story points us to Jesus, the greater Nehemiah, who sends us into the world to make disciples.

Main Points:

1. Nehemiah wanted God’s will. (v.1–8) – His heart longed for God’s glory, not his own.

2. Nehemiah waited on God’s timing. (v.1–8) – Waiting was preparation, not passivity.

3. Nehemiah went all in. (v.5–6) – He said, “Send me.”

4. Nehemiah was wise in his approach. (v.3–6) – Boldness mixed with honor.

5. Nehemiah was welcomed with hope and opposition. (v.9–20) – God’s people rose up to build, and enemies rose up to resist.