Nehemiah 11
McGeeCHAPTERS 1113THEME: ReformChapter 11 contains another great list which continues into chapter 12. These people were willing to do whatever God wanted them to do. Note the few verses from this chapter.
Nehemiah 11:1
The people cast lots. One out of every ten persons would stay in Jerusalem. The other nine would move to other cities. I guess the person who drew the shortest straw stayed in Jerusalem, and the other nine went out to make their homes in other places. This could be a situation in which there would be a lot of complaining. It would be a perfect opportunity for people to say, “Why did God let this happen to me? I would rather live in a small town or in the country.”
Nehemiah 11:2
There were many people who wanted to move out to the suburban areas even in that day. But for those who were willing to dwell in Jerusalem, they just thanked God for them. These folk are strangers to us, but God knew each one; and He records their names because they had willing hearts.
Nehemiah 11:3
In the following verses are the names of those who were willing to live in Jerusalem. God takes note of the willing heart! Chapter 12 continues the list begun in chapter 11. The people listed here are those who just praised God. Years ago, when I was a pastor in Pasadena, California, I used to visit a lady who was going blind and was partially confined to a wheelchair. You would think this dear lady needed to be helped and comforted. To tell the truth, I don’t think she did, but I needed help in those days. I was a young preacher, and I went by to listen to her. Do you know why? She would praise God. My, how she could praise the Lord! Chapter 12 lists those who praised God, and I imagine that her name is somewhere in the listwe don’t have the latest list. God, I am sure, keeps a continuing record. The bulk of this chapter is devoted to a dedication of the walls of Jerusalem. This was a thrilling occasion!