“Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man. I was the cupbearer to the king.” Nehemiah 1:11 (ESV)
Who doesn’t need a favor? Even independent, self sufficient me! I’ve often found myself desperately in need of someone’s assistance or grace. And yes, I’m the one who hesitates to ask. Don’t know if I’m just simply intimidated, insecure or plain just don’t want to admit I need a favor but I have to dig deep to utter those words “help.”
Nehemiah definitely wasn’t self sufficient or intimidated. His heart was broken over the vulnerability of His people. The wall of Jerusalem was broken down by King Nebuchadnezzar and every attempt to rebuild had failed. End result Jerusalem was vulnerable to the attacks of their enemies. The people were in great trouble and disgrace; its gates burned with fire.
And where was Nehemiah? Serving as the cupbearer to King Artaxerxes. So when he learned of the devastation of his people, Nehemiah desired to leave his prestigious job so he could help rebuild Jerusalem. Only problem, he needed permission from the king in order to relinquish his duties in the palace. Fasting and praying, Nehemiah needed a favor and God was the only one who could help him. And even though he was terrified to ask the King, Nehemiah feared what would happen to his people more than he feared for his own life.
God heard the prayer of Nehemiah, and not only did the King release Nehemiah but he gave him letters to ensure Nehemiah’s success. Letters written to make sure Nehemiah traveled safely. Letters that would provide timber for rebuilding. God’s favor would far exceed Nehemiah’s expectations.
How many times have we cried out for help and God delivered us in ways beyond our thinking? How many times has He moved obstacles out of our way so that we could attain success? Don’t know about you but I can’t count those moments on my hands – there are too many. Amazing encounters where God made my way easier because He divinely went ahead of me. Perfect reason to seek His help. Absolutely makes sense to ask for His favor and divine intervention. We can’t go wrong if we put our faith, hope and trust in Him.
“Father, You are the God of Nehemiah and You are our God working behind the scenes. Even though we can’t see it, we know that favor comes from You alone – praise Your holy name!”
For His Glory
Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life
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