How can we apply the principles of giving from Nehemiah 7:69 today? Setting the Scene During Nehemiah’s leadership the returned exiles inventoried everything God had provided for the rebuilding of Jerusalem. Nehemiah 7:69 records part of that list: “their camels – 435, and 6,720 donkeys.” Even a seemingly simple head-count of animals teaches enduring lessons about giving. Timeless Principles of Giving Drawn from the Verse • God values every gift, large or small. If camels and donkeys matter enough to be recorded, so does every resource we dedicate to His work (Luke 21:1-4). • Giving is practical as well as spiritual. Animals supplied transportation, labor, food, and trade—tangible help for kingdom purposes (James 2:16). • Stewardship involves careful record-keeping. Nehemiah’s precise numbers show accountability and transparency (1 Corinthians 4:2). • The whole community participates. Owners of common work animals stood alongside wealthier donors; everyone had a part (2 Corinthians 8:14-15). • Provision precedes progress. Before the walls rose, resources were gathered. Faith plans and prepares, trusting God to bless the work (Proverbs 21:5). Practical Ways to Live This Out Today • Inventory what God has placed in your hands—time, skills, possessions—and ask how each can serve His mission. • Give in kind, not only in cash. Vehicles, tools, groceries, professional expertise, or spare rooms can advance ministry just as surely as money. • Keep clear records of income and outflow. Budget a set portion for the Lord first (Proverbs 3:9; Malachi 3:10). • Support projects that meet concrete needs—local food banks, missionary logistics, church facility upkeep—mirroring the utilitarian gifts of animals in Nehemiah’s day. • Encourage everyone in your circle to participate, modeling equal sacrifice rather than equal amounts (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Celebrate and communicate what God has provided. Testimonies of specific amounts or items given build faith and invite further generosity (1 Chronicles 29:14-16). Final Encouragement Just as counted camels and donkeys moved God’s restoration plan forward, every modern act of faithful giving—recorded and remembered—moves His work ahead today. |
    |