RISE UP AND BUILD. Nehemiah 2:17-18 Faith often shines brightest in the darkest times. When our faith in God is intact, personal assurance and knowledge make a vision a practical reality. Nehemiah was confident that God was with him and guiding him. Even though the present circumstances were depressing, he was sure God was with him. His positive belief was so strong that others opened their eyes and put their hope in God as well. The light of truth and faith, amid the defeat and lethargy that were common in Jerusalem, gave them reason to focus on the future rather than on the wasted years of the past.
People who have put their faith in God, from ages past to this present day, share the same assurance. No matter how severe the opposition, suffering, or injustice God's people may face on earth, justice will prevail. The believer who lives and dies in the sure hope that, when they leave their bodies, they are immediately in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ has a positive impact on others' faith. When a person turns their attention to God and His almighty power, they have reason to be united in a work, trusting that those who believe in Him will be kept safe and secure. No one can do what God will not allow. We may never know why the pressures and hardships come our way, but we can keep our faith in Him and, by His grace, go through what life holds in store for us.
When Nehemiah spoke to the priests, nobles, and rulers of the Jews who were at Jerusalem, he emphasized that rebuilding the wall was not just his own idea. He made sure they knew that the gracious hand of God was on him. He could personally testify that God was alive and actively engaged in his life. Not only was God’s hand of grace upon him, but by God’s grace, he had come with the authority and written sanction of the King of Babylon.
With his words, Nehemiah challenged the leaders, and they responded with encouragement and a positive attitude: “Let us rise up and build!” Strengthening their hands meant they had personally resolved to commit themselves and their influence to rebuilding the wall.
We should never underestimate others, even when they may seem complacent and willing to accept things as they are without a fuss. When a person of vision, vitality, and venture, with enthusiasm and commitment, challenges them, they see clearly what they can do and be part of. Some people cannot lead others and need strong leadership to set a direction and promote good ideas under divine authority. Then those who seemed disinterested may put their hands to the work and do a good job.
Not everyone has vision, and not everyone with vision can make it a reality. Both vision and practicality are essential. The united work of people with differing gifts and talents is required to bring a project to completion.
Enthusiasm among those who lead creates a workforce that "rises up and builds." Discouragement and disillusionment about our situation ("There’s no point in doing that in this place" or "These are the last days and we are just trying to hold on till the Lord comes") can be overcome when we see things through God's eyes. Vision leads to vitality, and vitality leads to venture. Defeated people can become unified and positive when a leader like Nehemiah raises their sights above what they have become accustomed to. "And they said, 'Let us rise up and build.'"