Then I told them of the hand of my God which was good upon me; as also the king’s words that he had spoken unto me. And they said, Let us rise up and build. So they strengthened their hands for this good work. Nehemiah 2:18 (KJV)
They strengthened their hands. Before anything great can be accomplished and the vision reinforced, we must understand the reason and purpose for being on the wall. Nehemiah made the purpose clear and the people united for the task.
Paul said:
But whatever happens to me, remember always to live as Christians should, so that whether I ever see you again or not, I will keep on hearing good reports that you are standing side by side with one strong purpose – to tell the Good News. Philippians 1:27 (TLB)
Are we standing side by side with one strong purpose? Have we resolved to “rise up and build”? Are we strengthening our hands for this good work? As the Message Bible puts it:
They said, “We’re with you, Let’s get started.” They rolled up their sleeves, ready for the good work. Nehemiah 2:18 (MSG)
In Exodus 17 we read of a momentous occasion in Israel’s history. Moses was unable to hold his hands up, and if they fell then the Amalekites would certainly win the battle. However, Aaron and Hur stepped forth and held the hands of Moses up until the battle was won. It is a beautiful picture of partnership and working together with one purpose.
So “they strengthened their hands” in Nehemiah. Nehemiah put different people working on different places of the wall. Not everyone did the same thing, but they were working toward the same goal. Keep reading through the book. In chapter 6 the enemy continued to oppose their plans. Nehemiah said:
They were all trying to frighten us, thinking, “Their hands will get too weak for the work, and it will not be completed.” But I prayed, “Now strengthen my hands.” Nehemiah 6:9 (NIV)
God answers Nehemiah’s prayer and the rebuilding project continues. Under Nehemiah’s leadership, the walls are rebuilt in fifty-two days. May God strengthen your hands now. May you fulfil your assignment.