Friday · 2026-07-31

Here is your daily Come Follow Me devotional for Nehemiah 4–6.

Scripture Reading

Nehemiah 4
Nehemiah 5
Nehemiah 6

Historical and Narrative Context

Nehemiah 4–6 details the continued efforts to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem under Nehemiah's inspired leadership. The Jewish people faced intense opposition from neighboring adversaries like Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem, who resorted to mockery, threats of attack, and deceitful plots to stop the sacred work. Internally, Nehemiah also addressed social injustice among the Jews themselves, where some wealthy individuals were exploiting the poor by charging excessive interest, leading to widespread debt and even enslavement. Despite these challenges, Nehemiah inspired the people to work diligently, with half of them building and half standing guard with weapons, and to remain steadfast in their purpose, declaring, "I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down".

Reflective Questions

1. In Nehemiah 4, the people worked "with one hand in the work, and with the other hand held a weapon" (Nehemiah 4:17). What "spiritual weapons" or practices do you employ to protect your efforts to build the kingdom of God when facing opposition, criticism, or distraction?
2. Nehemiah courageously addressed internal contention and injustice among his own people (Nehemiah 5). How does addressing internal conflicts and striving for unity and righteousness within our families, wards, and communities strengthen our collective ability to accomplish God's work?

Closing Tying Insight

The account of Nehemiah 4–6 powerfully demonstrates that building God's kingdom often involves confronting both external opposition and internal challenges. Nehemiah's unwavering focus, his reliance on prayer, and his commitment to justice among his people allowed the monumental task of rebuilding the walls to be completed. Just as Nehemiah declared, "I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down" (Nehemiah 6:3), we too are engaged in a great work as we strive to build Zion today. When we encounter ridicule, threats, or even internal discord, we can follow Nehemiah's example by diligently pursuing our divinely appointed tasks, trusting in God's strength, and fostering righteousness among ourselves.