God Opens Doors

We talked yesterday about Nehemiah’s burden. But how did his burden and vision become reality? Remember, Nehemiah asked God for miracles, and the first one God granted was in the heart of a King.

Nehemiah’s job title does not sound very illustrious. He was “cup-bearer to the King.” But it actually was a very significant role in the King’s house. It meant that the King trusted Nehemiah with his life because Nehemiah was the last one to touch the food (and drink) before it was presented to the King. Nehemiah tasted everything the King ate to insure that no one was trying to poison him. Not a slouch job, but he definitely wasn’t one of the King’s best friends. After all, he could die any day just doing his job.

But because Nehemiah was burdened, he fasted, prayed, and asked God to do miracles. One day the King said to Nehemiah, “Why are you sad?” Nehemiah’s burden was so great that even the King noticed. It gave Nehemiah the opportunity to share his burden with the King. And guess what…the King gave him permission to go to Jerusalem and see to the rebuilding of the walls! Not only that, the King gave him letters to take with him to insure that he not only had safe passage, but the materials needed to complete the task, and soldiers for protection!

Just because God granted a miracle did not mean Nehemiah was without challenges. There were two guys in particular who were not happy with what was about to happen, and they caused quite a bit of trouble. But again, because Nehemiah continued to pray and ask God for miracles, He gave Nehemiah the wisdom and grace to handle the situation. Do you have a Sandballat and Tobiah in your life? Keep praying, keep fasting, and keep petitioning God. He may open doors in the places you least expect.