Dig into each piece of it in Ephesians 6:10-18, and practice mindfully putting it on daily.
Read this passage side-by-side with Job 5:8-16. How do the details of one support the truth of the other?
Nehemiah’s enemies knew that Nehemiah knew all about their plan and that God had brought it to nothing (or, as the Hebrew language describes, made it void).
Read these verses alongside Ephesians 6:10-20. How does one further illustrate theother?
Rocks, soil, dirt, trees – they all tell a story. What you can find about the kind of stone that ancient Jewish walls and temples were built with?
In chapter three, the Jews made incredible headway on the great rebuilding project of 444 BC.
Look at the nationalities of the enemies listed by name in verse 19. See what you can find about their history with the people of God.
In chapters like these, Bible dictionaries, historical records, and encyclopedias can provide incredibly helpful insight.
I wonder if the Hebrews walked around knowing what their names meant or if they are like ours, where there is a meaning to discover if you look to find it.
Nehemiah’s path is outlined in detail for a reason. Research the locations he mentions to see what you can piece together.
Pay particular attention to the references in your Bible’s margins for this passage. (For example, with verse 15, reference 2 Samuel 15:23. And with verse 18, reference 2 Samuel 2:7).
I didn’t get very far into this passage before my jaw hit the floor – in fact, I didn’t make it past verse 11.
Dig into the historical records of King Artaxerxes and see if you can gain any new insight into his interactions with Nehemiah.
Read Hebrews 4:14-16 in light of Nehemiah 2:1-2. How does the contrast provide further illustration?
After four months of fervent prayer, Nehemiah finds himself standing before King Artaxerxes, swallowing down the fear that desperately tries to choke his words.
