Raised in Honour

Furthermore, from the day King Artaxerses appointed me to be their governor in the land of Judah- from the 20th year until his 32nd year, 12 years- I and my associates never ate from the food allotted to the governor. The governors who preceded me had heavily burdened the people, taking food and wine from them, as well as a pound of silver. Their subordinates also oppressed the people, but I didn't do this, because of the fear of God. instead, I devoted myself to the construction of the wall, and all my  subordinates were gathered there for the work. We didn't buy any land.
There were 150 Jews and officials, as well as guests from the surrounding nations at my table. Each day an ox, 6 choice sheep and some fowl were prepared for me. An abundance of all kinds of wine were provided every 10 days. but I didn't demand the food allotted to the governor, because the burden on the people was so heavy.
Remember me favourably, oh God, for all I have done for this people. Nehemiah 5:14-19

We now find Nehemiah a governor. A cupbearer becomes a governor. He was obviously found trustworthy and had favour with the king.

Nehemiah responded to God's burden for His people and faithfully ministered to and cared for the people. He metered out justice and mercy. He shepherded them, guided them in the rebuilding of the wall and coached them in defence of there territory against Sanballat, the Samaritans and Arabs. Nehemiah took on the nobles and officials who were extracting a huge financial burden from the little people and corrected the inequity.

Faithfulness results in honour. God rewards the faithful, the just and the merciful.

Nehemiah went to rebuild a wall and now is a governor and remained so for 12 years during the reign of king Artaxerses. What can you become in the Lord's hand?

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