Single-focused and crystal clear on both his objective and the obstacles, Nehemiah undertook the monumental task of rebuilding Jerusalem’s wall. From the time he heard the devastating news of the condition of Jerusalem while serving as Artaxerxes’ cupbearer to his arrival on the scene, a prayer-filled foundation had been laid. This foundation of Nehemiah’s grief/humility/confession, combined with unwavering trust in God’s faithfulness, would prove to be the underlying bricks and mortar that galvanized the Israelites into faith-filled action to rebuild the wall in record time. 

Traveling under protection of the king’s army first to the lands beyond the Euphrates to acquire necessary timber, Nehemiah arrived in Jerusalem expectantly holding God’s vision within. Examining the wall under darkness of night, Nehemiah undertook a full exploration of the rubble before presenting his God-given mission to the leaders and the people. 

“Then I said to them, ‘You see the trouble we are in: Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been burned with fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace.’ I also told them about the gracious hand of my God on me and what the king had said to me. They replied, ‘Let us start rebuilding.’ So they began this good work.” (Nehemiah 2:17-18)  

Not surprisingly, this good work was met with immediate opposition from those who felt threatened by the restoration of Jerusalem. In the face of mockery and ridicule, Nehemiah responded by assigning specific and personal sections of the wall and reminding his people of the critical task at hand. Their enemies became incensed that the wall was so quickly rebuilt to half its height.

“They all plotted together to come and fight against Jerusalem and stir up trouble against it. But we prayed to our God and posted a guard day and night to meet this threat.” (4:8-9)  

Prayerfully strengthened and physically equipped to face attacks, the Israelites pressed on. “Each of the builders wore his sword at his side as he worked. But the man who sounded the trumpet stayed with me.” (4:18) 

Then I said to the nobles, the officials and the rest of the people, “The work is extensive and spread out, and we are widely separated from each other along the wall. Wherever you hear the sound of the trumpet, join us there. Our God will fight for us!” (4:19-20) 

The clear sound of the trumpet was what would join the Israelites together in times of trouble, just as the clear calling from God was what had equipped Nehemiah to be their leader in this critical time. Under Nehemiah’s clear-visioned leadership, the Israelites turned their focus away from their enemy’s threats in order to tune in to the call of God. How might we do the same?