II. HE EXPLOITED THE CIRCUMSTANCES Neh. 2:1-9.
God often prepares people for a work by putting them in the right place.
Nehemiah had an opportunity to present his request. He was probably, under the exile Jews in a unique position to do so effectively.
Character:
i) Obviously had a good reputation with the king to be trusted.We need to have good reputation. Overseer or bishop: 1 Tim.3:7
The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom, all those who follow his precepts have good understanding : Ps.111.10
ii) Did his homework right
plans fail for lack of counsel,but with many advisers they succeed. Pr.15.22
iii) Was humble in acknowledging God and gave Him the glory for his success. Neh. 2:8 - "because the gracious hand of my God was upon me, the King granted my request." Prov.6:16-17
iv) Believed that God was able to perform the miracle, despite the fact that repair on the Walls had been stopped before.
Practical Lessons:
i) He thought through what was needed to do the JOB properly.
ii) Realised possible dangers - Didn’t say "Just send me!"
- asked for protection from the King - Neh. 2:7
- asked for building material - Neh.2:8
- put his cards on the table so King knew exactly what he was going to do.
Neh.2: 8:
"And may I have a letter to Asaph, keeper of the king’s forest, so he will give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel and for the city wall and for the residance I will occupy"
Hence he could have no fear when Sanballat threatened to go to the king and say that Nehemiah was rebelling. Neh 6:6 & 7.
Honesty is a virtue that we should have.
Jesus said I am the Truth (John 14.6)...and the Truth shall set you free (John 8:32).
Lev. 19.36 : Use honest scales and honest weights.
We must learn to bring back into our vocabulary the words Honesty and Righteousness.
iii) we often miss the opportunity to exploit an opportunity correctly by being unprepared.
Parable of the Unjust Steward Luke 16:1-11 :
"for the people of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own kind than the people of the light." (Luke 16:8)
"If you have not been trustworthy in dealing with worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches." Luke 16:11).
Wasn’t commended for his dishonesty but for his skillfulness in making the most out of a bad situation. Master’s debtors would be friendly to him. Used his brain in a difficult position. Pray intelligently for opportunities.
Summary:
God wants us to use our brains in His Service, to pray, plan, meditate and execute His plans.
