What does Nehemiah 3:15 teach about stewardship of resources and responsibilities? Verse in Focus “Shallun son of Col-Hozeh, ruler of the district of Mizpah, repaired the Fountain Gate; he rebuilt it and covered it, he erected its doors and bolts and bars, and he also rebuilt the wall of the Pool of Shelah near the king’s garden, as far as the steps descending from the City of David.” (Nehemiah 3:15) What We See in Shallun’s Work - A civic leader who does not delegate everything away—he personally “repaired,” “rebuilt,” and “erected.” - Attention to detail: doors, bolts, bars, and covering—nothing left unfinished. - Investment that benefits more than himself: the Fountain Gate and Pool of Shelah supplied water to the whole city. - Service extending “as far as” the steps—he recognizes boundaries and fully completes what is assigned. Stewardship Principles Drawn from Nehemiah 3:15 - Ownership of responsibility • God entrusts specific tasks to specific people (cf. 1 Corinthians 4:2). - Faithfulness in the public square • Shallun holds civic authority yet labors like any worker. “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being” (Colossians 3:23). - Careful use of resources • Materials (doors, bolts, bars) are allocated where they are most protective and productive (Proverbs 3:27). - Serving the common good • Water sources secured for all mirrors God’s call to bless others with what we steward (1 Peter 4:10). - Finishing the assignment • He works “as far as” the designated boundary—no half-measures. Jesus commends completing what is started (Luke 14:28–30). - Visible testimony of obedience • The rebuilt gate proclaims God’s restoration. Our stewardship likewise points others to His faithfulness (Matthew 5:16). Supporting Scriptural Echoes - Luke 16:10 “He who is faithful in very little is also faithful in much.” - Genesis 2:15 “The LORD God took the man and placed him in the Garden of Eden to work it and keep it.” - 1 Peter 4:10 “Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve others…” - 1 Corinthians 4:2 “Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” Practical Takeaways for Today - Identify the “gate” God has placed under your care—home, ministry, workplace. - Invest time, skill, and material wisely; excellence honors the Lord. - Remember that stewardship is never just about personal benefit; it protects and provides for others. - Finish assignments completely; partial obedience is disobedience. - Let completed, well-cared-for projects become testimonies of God’s character and provision. |
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