Topical Encyclopedia
Nehemiah, a prominent figure in the post-exilic period of Israel's history, is renowned for his role as a leader and intercessor for the people of Judah and Jerusalem. His life and actions are documented in the Book of Nehemiah, where his deep commitment to God and his people is evident through his persistent prayers and intercessions.
Nehemiah's Initial Intercession (Nehemiah 1:4-11): Upon hearing the distressing news about the broken walls and burned gates of Jerusalem, Nehemiah's immediate response was one of mourning, fasting, and prayer. He interceded on behalf of the Israelites, confessing their sins and pleading for God's mercy. Nehemiah's prayer reflects a deep understanding of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, as he reminded God of His promises: "Remember the word that You commanded Your servant Moses, saying, ‘If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the nations, but if you return to Me and keep My commandments and do them, then even if your exiles are at the ends of the earth, I will gather them from there and bring them to the place I have chosen as a dwelling for My Name’" (
Nehemiah 1:8-9).
Intercession for Favor with the King (Nehemiah 2:4-5): Before approaching King Artaxerxes to request permission to rebuild Jerusalem, Nehemiah once again turned to God in prayer. His brief but earnest intercession, "So I prayed to the God of heaven" (
Nehemiah 2:4), highlights his reliance on divine guidance and favor. This moment of intercession was pivotal, as it led to the king granting Nehemiah's request, providing him with the authority and resources needed for the task.
Intercession Against Opposition (Nehemiah 4:4-5, 9): As Nehemiah and the people faced opposition from their enemies, he interceded for divine intervention. He prayed, "Hear us, O our God, for we are despised. Turn their insults back on their own heads. Give them over as plunder in a land of captivity" (
Nehemiah 4:4). Nehemiah's intercession was coupled with practical action, as he set a guard day and night to protect the workers. His leadership exemplified a balance of prayerful dependence on God and strategic planning.
Intercession for Justice and Restoration (Nehemiah 5:19; 6:14): Nehemiah's intercessory prayers extended beyond physical protection to social justice and spiritual restoration. In the face of internal strife and exploitation among the Israelites, Nehemiah called for repentance and restitution. He prayed, "Remember me favorably, O my God, for all that I have done for this people" (
Nehemiah 5:19). Additionally, when faced with false accusations and intimidation, he prayed, "Remember Tobiah and Sanballat, O my God, according to these their works, and the prophetess Noadiah and the rest of the prophets who were trying to intimidate me" (
Nehemiah 6:14).
Intercession for Spiritual Renewal (Nehemiah 9:5-38): Following the completion of the wall, Nehemiah led the people in a time of confession and covenant renewal. The Levites, under Nehemiah's leadership, offered a comprehensive prayer recounting God's faithfulness and Israel's repeated unfaithfulness. This intercessory prayer was a communal act of repentance and recommitment to God's law, emphasizing the need for spiritual renewal and obedience.
Nehemiah's intercessory role was integral to the physical and spiritual rebuilding of Jerusalem. His prayers were characterized by humility, confession, and a deep trust in God's promises, serving as a model for intercessory prayer in the life of believers.
Nave's Topical Index
Nehemiah 1:4-9And it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven,
Nave's Topical Index
Library
The Pharisee and the Publican
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A Discourse Upon the Pharisee and the Publican
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Arthur, he appealed to the humane feelings of the magistrate on behalf of his ...
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Resources
What is intercessory prayer? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is All Saints' Day? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the satanic verses? | GotQuestions.orgIntercession: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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