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Nehemiah 6:15
So the wall was finished in the twenty and fifthday ofthe month Elul, in fifty and two days.

1 Chronicles 29:3,14,17,18
Moreover, because I have set my affection to the house of my God, I have of mine own proper good, of gold and silver,which I have given to the house of my God, over and above all that I have prepared for the holy house, …

2 Chronicles 29:36
And Hezekiah rejoiced, and all the people, that God had prepared the people: for the thing wasdone suddenly.

until all of it was joined together
This phrase indicates the completion of a significant phase in the construction process. The joining of the wall signifies unity and strength, both physically and spiritually. In ancient times, city walls were essential for defense, and their completion would have been a major milestone. This unity in construction can be seen as a metaphor for the unity of the people of Israel, working together for a common purpose.

up to half its height
Reaching half the height of the wall suggests significant progress but also indicates that the work was not yet complete. This can be seen as a test of perseverance and faith, as the people had to continue their efforts despite potential fatigue and external threats. The mention of "half its height" serves as a reminder of the ongoing nature of God's work in the lives of His people, requiring continued dedication and trust.

for the people had a mind to work
The phrase highlights the determination and willingness of the people to engage in the task at hand. This collective mindset was crucial for overcoming the challenges they faced, including opposition from adversaries and the enormity of the task. The people's resolve can be seen as a reflection of their faith and commitment to God's purposes. This determination is reminiscent of other biblical figures who demonstrated a strong will to fulfill God's commands, such as Joshua and the Israelites in conquering the Promised Land.

“So we rebuilt the wall” (Nehemiah 4:6a) is the report of determined obedience. After praying (Nehemiah 4:4) and posting guards (Nehemiah 4:9), Nehemiah and the workers did not merely talk about faith—they acted. •Nehemiah 2:18 records the moment they “strengthened their hands for the good work,” showing that faith-inspired action is normal for God’s people, just asJames 2:17 reminds us that faith without works is dead. • Like the Israelites ofExodus 35:21 who “came, everyone whose heart stirred him,” the builders responded eagerly when God’s call became clear.

The wall “was joined together” (Nehemiah 4:6b) because every section met its neighbor. The imagery stresses corporate unity. •Nehemiah 3 lists families assigned to specific stretches; by cooperating, individual efforts formed an unbroken defense. • Paul later pictures the church “joined and held together” inEphesians 4:16, underscoring that God’s work advances when each part connects. •Psalm 133:1 celebrates unity as “good and pleasant,” the very atmosphere that enabled progress in Jerusalem.

They reached “half its height” (Nehemiah 4:6c), a realistic progress report. • Halfway means substantial achievement, yet the project was not finished; opposition (Nehemiah 4:7–8) and fatigue (Nehemiah 4:10) lay ahead. •Philippians 1:6 encourages believers that “He who began a good work in you will perfect it,” reminding us to press on. •Galatians 6:9 warns against growing weary mid-project; perseverance is required to move from partial to complete.

The secret of their success: “the people had a mind to work” (Nehemiah 4:6d). Their hearts and wills were aligned with God’s purpose.

• Motivation:1 Chronicles 29:9 describes a similar scene where “the people rejoiced, for they had offered willingly.” When the heart is stirred, hands follow.

• Focus:Colossians 3:23 commands, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” The builders saw the wall as God’s assignment, not merely Nehemiah’s.

• Resolve: Despite ridicule (Nehemiah 4:1–3), they chose diligence over discouragement, provingProverbs 14:23—“In all labor there is profit.”

Nehemiah 4:6 captures a snapshot of God’s people united in purposeful labor. They acted on faith, connected their individual efforts, recognized midway milestones, and persisted because their hearts were set on the task. The verse challenges believers today to pair prayer with action, value unity, keep pressing beyond “halfway,” and cultivate a willing spirit that works enthusiastically for the Lord.

CHAPTER 4:7-23

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