“…And it came to pass in the month Chisleu, in the twentieth year…” ~Nehemiah 1:1
“… And it came to pass in the month Nisan, in the twentieth year…” ~Nehemiah 2:1
From Chisleu (December) to Nisan (April), Nehemiah wept, mourned, fasted and prayed for his beloved city of Jerusalem.
He was a captive in another country, faithfully serving as the King’s cupbearer. He had no means or freedom to meet the needs of his fellow countrymen. He could do nothing but pray.
For four long months, he quietly did his job, waiting for God to give the answer to his prayer – to rebuild the wall of Jerusalem.
He confessed. He repented. He begged. He reminded God of His promises to His people.
Nehemiah must have wanted to just give up. To forget his crazy notion of going back to Jerusalem to help. It must have been difficult to keep a poised, gracious spirit before the King every day for four months.
But finally…FINALLY… God moved. He touched the King, and granted everything, and even more, than Nehemiah needed to return to his country and do the work God had laid on his heart.
It may sometimes feel that God is asleep. That He isn’t hearing you. That your prayers are just bouncing off the ceiling. But He is listening. He is working. He is moving all the pieces into just the right position to bring your answer.
He may sleep, as He did in the boat, when the storm rose up to frighten the disciples.
He may sleep…but He never oversleeps!
He will arise. His enemies will be scattered. And He will work a might victory by His power and might.
Don’t lose heart, my friend. His answer is on the way.
Alesha Kay
Obtaining Mercy 