Nehemiah 5

In this chapter we see the focus switch from the people outside of the wall construction to the citizens of Jerusalem and the evil that is occurring between the people. 

We see clearly the difference between a people who pursue the world, power, and utilize corruption for their own gain and a man who loves and responds to the Lord’s commandments. 

On one hand the civil leaders and religious leaders utilizing their status and power to take money from the poor, forcing them into dire circumstances such as selling their children. On the other you have Nehemiah who is always looking towards the advancement of the city and hosting many people at his table with abundant food and wine. Selfishness vs selflessness, selfishness dominating the culture, and their own people within the walls of Jerusalem struggling in poverty and slavery. Nehemiah was countercultural. 

As Christians in an evil and corrupt world, how do we respond? Do we leverage our individual aspects of privilege for our own gain, or do we use it for others? For the Lord’s glory? Let us strive and rely on the Lord to be a godly, humble, selfless people.