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Uninvolved, September 16
Nehemiah 3
And next unto them the Tekoites repaired; but their nobles put not their
necks to the work of their Lord.
Nehemiah 3:5
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Among the first to catch Nehemiah’s spirit of zeal and earnestness were
the priests. Because of their influential position, these men could do much to
advance or hinder the work; and their ready co-operation at the very outset,
contributed not a little to its success. The majority of the princes and rulers
of Israel came up nobly to their duty, and these faithful men have honorable
mention in the book of God. There were a few, the Tekoite nobles, who “put not
their necks to the work of their Lord,” The memory of these slothful servants
is branded with shame and has been handed down as a warning to all future
generations.
In every religious movement there are some who, while they cannot deny
that the cause is God’s, still hold themselves aloof, refusing to make any effort
to help. It were well for such ones to remember the record kept on high—that
book in which there are no omissions, no mistakes, and out of which they will
be judged. There every neglected opportunity to do service for God is recorded;
and there, too, every deed of faith and love is held in everlasting remembrance.
Against the inspiring influence of Nehemiah’s presence the example of
the Tekoite nobles had little weight. The people in general were animated by
patriotism and zeal. Men of ability and influence organized the various classes of
citizens into companies, each leader making himself responsible for the erection
of a certain part of the wall. And of some it is written that they builded “everyone
over against his house.”
Nor did Nehemiah’s energy abate, now that the work was actually begun.
With tireless vigilance he superintended the building, directing the workmen,
noting the hindrance, and providing for emergencies.... In his many activities
Nehemiah did not forget the source of his strength. His heart was constantly
uplifted to God, the great Overseer of all. “The God of heaven,” he exclaimed,
“He will prosper us;” and the words, echoed and re-echoed, thrilled the hearts of
all the workers on the wall
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Prophets and Kings, 638-640
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