Nehemiah 13:31

I also arranged for contributions of wood at the appointed times, and for the firstfruits. Remember me, O my God, with favor.

Study Bible

I also arranged for contributions of wood at the appointed times
Nehemiah's leadership included practical measures to ensure the temple's needs were met. The contributions of wood were essential for the altar's fire, as outlined in Leviticus 6:12-13, where the fire on the altar was to be kept burning continuously. This arrangement reflects Nehemiah's commitment to restoring proper worship practices. The appointed times suggest a structured and organized approach, possibly aligning with the Jewish calendar and festivals, ensuring that the temple service was uninterrupted. This reflects the importance of order and provision in worship, a theme seen throughout the Old Testament.

and for the firstfruits
The offering of firstfruits was a significant practice in Israel, symbolizing gratitude and acknowledgment of God's provision (Exodus 23:19, Deuteronomy 26:1-11). By ensuring these offerings, Nehemiah reinforced the covenant relationship between God and His people. The firstfruits were a type of Christ, as Paul notes in 1 Corinthians 15:20, where Christ is described as the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep, indicating the promise of resurrection and new life.

Remember me, O my God, with favor
Nehemiah's prayer for remembrance is a personal plea for divine acknowledgment and blessing. This echoes the biblical theme of seeking God's favor, as seen in Psalms 106:4 and 2 Kings 20:3, where individuals seek God's remembrance for their faithfulness. Nehemiah's request highlights the personal relationship between God and His servants, emphasizing that human efforts in God's service are not forgotten. This plea also reflects the eschatological hope of being remembered by God, a theme that resonates with the assurance of eternal life in Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
The central figure in this passage, Nehemiah was a Jewish leader who played a crucial role in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls and the spiritual renewal of the people. He was a man of prayer and action, deeply committed to God's laws.

2. Jerusalem
The city where these events take place. It was the center of Jewish worship and identity, and its restoration was vital for the Jewish people.

3. The Supply of Wood
Nehemiah organized the provision of wood for temple services, which was essential for maintaining the worship practices as prescribed in the Law of Moses.

4. The Firstfruits
These were offerings given to God from the first yield of the harvest, symbolizing gratitude and dependence on God.

5. God
The ultimate focus of Nehemiah's actions and prayers. Nehemiah seeks God's favor, demonstrating his reliance on divine approval and blessing.

Teaching Points

Commitment to God's Work
Nehemiah's dedication to organizing the supply of wood and firstfruits shows the importance of practical steps in supporting worship and obedience to God.

Prayerful Dependence
Nehemiah's prayer, "Remember me, O my God, with favor," highlights the necessity of seeking God's approval and blessing in all endeavors.

Stewardship and Provision
The arrangement for resources reflects the principle of stewardship, ensuring that God's work is sustained through careful planning and provision.

Restoration of Worship
Nehemiah's actions underscore the need to restore and maintain proper worship practices, aligning with biblical commands.

Legacy of Faithfulness
Nehemiah's plea for God to remember him suggests a desire to leave a legacy of faithfulness and obedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Nehemiah's organization of resources for the temple challenge us to consider our own contributions to our local church or community?

2. In what ways can we apply Nehemiah's example of prayerful dependence on God in our daily lives?

3. How does the concept of firstfruits in Nehemiah 13:31 relate to our modern understanding of giving and stewardship?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that our worship practices are aligned with biblical principles, as Nehemiah did?

5. How can we cultivate a legacy of faithfulness in our own lives, similar to Nehemiah's desire for God to remember him with favor?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 6:12-13
This passage discusses the perpetual fire on the altar, which required a constant supply of wood, connecting to Nehemiah's arrangement for wood supply.

Proverbs 3:9-10
These verses emphasize honoring God with the firstfruits, aligning with Nehemiah's commitment to restoring this practice.

Malachi 3:10
This scripture speaks about bringing tithes into the storehouse, which relates to Nehemiah's efforts to ensure the temple's needs were met.