Former Blackout Artist

Remember me with favor, my God, for all I have done for these people.
– Nehemiah 5:19

Nehemiah was a man who lived for God and His people. His life, as we see in the Book of Nehemiah, shines as a powerful example of what faithfulness truly looks like. He was faithful to the Lord, seeking His guidance through prayer and trusting Him in every challenge (Neh. 1:4-11). He was faithful to God’s commands, unafraid to enforce His laws and tell the people of Israel what they needed to hear to keep them from straying back into sin (13:25-27). And he was faithful to his people, standing against injustice and oppression with courage and compassion, refusing to exploit his position for personal gain (5:14-18).

When I read about Nehemiah, I’m reminded of the prophet Samuel, another strong and dedicated leader who served God’s people with unwavering devotion. Like Samuel, Nehemiah put personal glory aside, focusing on doing what was right before God.

In Nehemiah 5:19, he prays, “Remember me with favor, my God, for all I have done for these people.” Notice that he didn’t pray, “God, I wish these ungrateful people would acknowledge all that I’ve done for them.” No, Nehemiah wasn’t concerned about receiving praise from those he was chosen to look after. He was seeking God’s approval alone, trusting that his work would be seen by the One who matters most.

What might our nation, communities, churches, and homes look like if we had more leaders like Nehemiah? Leaders who pray earnestly, obey God’s Word, and fight for justice with humility and integrity? God calls each of us to reflect this same faithfulness, whether we’re leading our family, serving our church, or impacting our community. Nehemiah’s example challenges us to live faithfully for God, trusting Him to remember our efforts as we serve others in His name.

The man who has God for his treasure has all things in One. Many ordinary treasures may be denied him, or if he is allowed to have them, the enjoyment from them will be so tempered that they will never be necessary to his happiness. Or if he must see them go, one after one, he will scarcely feel a sense of loss, for having the Source of all things he has in One all satisfaction, all pleasure, all delight. The Pursuit of God, by A.W. Tozer (1948)