Nehemiah 4

1. Read Nehemiah 4:1-14. Where do you see God directly or indirectly referenced in this passage? Remember this story is written the way it is to demonstrate specific theological themes God intends us to know. What do you learn about God from this passage?
2. Read verse 9 again. Nehemiah leads the people to do two things in response to opposition. What are they? Do you think those two things are contradictory to one another? Why or why not?
3. Read verse 10 and Nehemiah's response in verse 14. Can you think of one uniquely challenging situation you are facing right now? What is it, and how might Nehemiah's response in verse 14 encourage you in your situation?
4. Read Nehemiah 4:15-23. Once again, where do you see God directly or indirectly referenced in this passage? What do you learn about God from verses 15-23?
5. Read verses 19 and 20 again. The circumstances required that people scatter to complete their work, but they come together for protection whenever a threat arises. Ecclesiastes 4:12 says, "And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will with-stand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken." How might this principle apply to the course of our everyday Christian lives? Discuss.
6. Notice the communal language throughout Nehemiah 4:15-23: We. Us. Our. One another. Just as it required everyone to build the wall, it took the participation of everyone to endure and resist oppression. So it is with us. Think again about the uniquely challenging situation you noted earlier. Who are some people you can (or should be) call on to help you endure? Spend a few minutes praying for each of the people you identified. Pray for their perseverance and for yours. Consider reaching out to some of those people this week, sharing your burdens and bearing some of theirs.