“Rephaiah son of Hur, ruler of a half-district of Jerusalem, repaired the next section. 10 Adjoining this, Jedaiah son of Harumaph made repairs opposite his house, and Hattush son of Hashabneiah made repairs next to him.” Nehemiah 3:9-10(NIV).
I love this part of the story in Nehemiah. It illustrates how a nation can come together, utilizing its individual strengths to rebuild what has been broken and torn down. I see it as a reflection of the body of Christ, where we use our unique gifts to build the Church. God placed the desire in Nehemiah’s heart to rebuild the walls, and he faithfully stepped forward to fulfill his calling. Nehemiah was a man of prayer, and he understood that prayer and action go hand in hand. Although there were challenges along the way, Nehemiah consistently sought God’s wisdom to accomplish his mission.
I was informed that many people were rebuilding structures in front of or across from their homes. I learned that this initiative could encourage them to work quickly yet carefully, knowing the wall would protect their homes in the event of an attack. This project could also involve the entire family, allowing them to take pride in their craftsmanship and consider the work their own. The finished product would be of high quality and provide them with personal satisfaction.
In my devotional (Enduring Words by David Guzik), I discovered another layer to the message of rebuilding and restoring. It reminded me of what Pastor Lori said on Day 2 of HeartStrong, Season 8: “What if God wants to use you exactly where you are, in the very situation you are in? What if your current circumstances are connected to how God wants to glorify Himself in and through you?” As she spoke, it felt as though she was addressing me directly, and I absorbed every word. At the end of her teaching, Pastor Lori posed a thought-provoking question: “How might God want to use your current status in life for His glory?” She mentioned how the Enemy can instill in us a sense of insignificance, making us believe we are not doing enough or that God hasn’t yet used us.
A week later, Pastor Lori’s questions and statements surfaced again during my devotional as I read, “When God calls us to His work, the most important place to work is right in front of us—at our homes.” Since I am retired, my circle of friends primarily consists of those who know Christ. My neighbours all have jobs, and many lead busy lives, so we hardly see each other. Additionally, several of us have family members who either do not have a relationship with Jesus or are struggling with their faith. David Guzik referenced those who worked close to their homes in Nehemiah 3, explaining the meaning of each name mentioned and a brief message.
JEDAIH (3:10) means “he who calls to God” or “praises God.” Our homes should be places of prayer and worship. BENJAMIN (3:23) means “son of my right hand” and symbolizes a protector. Strive to be always ready to help and protect others. ZADOK (3:29) means “justice” or “righteousness.” Our homes should reflect integrity, where promises are kept. MESHULLAM (3:30) means “devoted,” “friend,” or “peacemaker.” Our homes should cultivate a healthy level of spiritual devotion to God.
No matter our current circumstances, God wants us to carry out His work. For now, that may take place in our homes. You are significant and worthy, regardless of where you are called. This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t seek out how God may use us outside the home, as His calling on our lives can change quickly. We pray for the Lord to use us wherever He chooses, and we trust the Holy Spirit to guide us. However, for now, it may just be about where you are, right at home. I have experienced feelings of insignificance in my own life, and I have learned to lean more deeply into Jesus. I believe He didn’t bring me to where I am today without having a purpose for me tomorrow.
I think of Jeremiah and others like him who dedicated their lives to serving the Lord. They shared warnings about destruction but also conveyed hope for the future. We have God’s Word and His truth, a complete Book filled with His love that we can share wherever the Holy Spirit leads us. Although some parts are scary, much like our world today, His story begins beautifully and ends beautifully. The more I read and pray, the more I see Him, and I have a desire for those who struggle with their faith to experience the wonders of our God. They may be right under my roof.
At the end of my devotional, Guzik says, “When we endeavor to do the Lord’s work, we should start right where we are—right in front of our homes—especially in the areas of prayer, protection, integrity, and devotion.” As I read Nehemiah 3 again, I was encouraged by how those rebuilding, restoring, and protecting their homes did so under the leadership of a powerful prayer warrior, Nehemiah. I thought of my family as I prayed for them, remembering that there’s no place like home.
Prayer: Gracious Father, may our hearts be at peace knowing You see us as significant and worthy to do Your will, to speak the Good News of Jesus and to show others the wonderful love of our God. Whether building or restoring in our workplaces, schools, or homes, let Your light shine through our words and actions to glorify You. If You call us to go, Holy Spirit guide our steps. If You ask us to stay, it will be no less of a calling. Wherever we are, may Your will be done. Let us be Your vessels bringing the joy and love of Jesus with boldness and courage, holding up our shield of faith and speaking Your Word, bravely and lovingly. In Jesus name. Amen.
