Nehemiah Chapter 7: “Do I Count?”

If I had to give Nehemiah chapter 7 a title, it would be “Do I Count?” Today, we’ll look at the transformation that happens after war—learning to worship and dive into the Word. After a battle, there comes a time for worship, reflection, and revival.

Let’s jump into Nehemiah chapter 7. In the NIV, it starts by saying, “After the wall had been rebuilt and the doors had been set in place, the gatekeepers, the musicians, and the Levites were appointed.” In verse 1, Nehemiah says, “I put in charge of Jerusalem my brother Hananiah…” This chapter marks a significant point—Jerusalem has been restored after the destruction of the walls and gates. Before a nation can be restored, it starts with an individual revival, then moves to the family, the community, and finally the nation. Personal restoration precedes national restoration. This idea is critical: true transformation begins with individuals, and the church is the only God-ordained entity that can spark this change.

Nehemiah trusted Hananiah, a man of integrity who feared God, to oversee Jerusalem’s rebuilding. Nehemiah also gave clear instructions: “The gates of Jerusalem are not to be opened until the sun is hot.” These instructions were meant to ensure safety, and he appointed guards, some stationed at their posts and some near their homes.

Moving forward, in verse 4, Nehemiah notes, “The city was large, but the people were few, and the houses had not yet been built.” This is when Nehemiah gathers the nobles and rulers to record the genealogy of those who had returned from Babylonian exile under Zerubbabel. These records show the lineage of the people who came back, restoring their identity and connection to the land.

As the genealogy continues, hundreds of names are listed, reminding us of the long and faithful history that the people of Israel share. Though the names may seem complex, it highlights the importance of remembering our roots and the generations that came before us.

Now, let’s look at chapter 8, which we read last week. In verse 1, it says, “All the people gathered as one in the square before the Water Gate.” This moment is crucial—Ezra, the teacher of the law, is asked to bring out the Word of God, the law of Moses, which the Lord commanded to Israel. The people had just completed the Feast of Tabernacles, a divine appointment with God.

Ezra brought the Word before the assembly, which included men, women, and all who could understand. From dawn till noon, he read aloud to the people—yes, six hours! Now, if you think I’m long-winded, remember that Ezra went for half the day. The people listened attentively, showing respect for God’s Word.

Ezra stood on a high platform, and as he opened the Book, all the people stood up. They praised the Lord, lifting their hands and responding, “Amen! Amen!” Then, they bowed down and worshipped. This was a powerful moment because when God’s Word is shared, it leads to worship and transformation.

This passage highlights how the Word of God, when proclaimed, can lead to revival, worship, and a deeper relationship with God. Let’s remember the power of the Word, and as we read it, may we be inspired to worship and live in a way that honors God.