Nehemiah Sets Up a Communication System

Nehemiah 4:15–23
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When Nehemiah’s enemies heard that their plot had been discovered, they did not attack and the people resumed their construction work (v. 15). However, Nehemiah exercises caution and devises a plan of defense that will unite and protect his people. He divides the people around the wall.  Half of them work while the other half stands guard (v. 16). The work proceeded, and everyone who was involved in the work also carried a weapon (vv 17-18).

To further relieve the anxieties of the people, Nehemiah set up a communication system. He organized the people so that when a trumpet was sounded all of the people would congregate to a given area (v. 19). In order to accomplish this, he stationed a trumpeter next to him (v. 20). This was a person who would follow him everywhere he went as he supervised the work. He also reminds the people that God is fighting for them.

The work was very demanding (vv 21-23). They worked from the crack of dawn until the stars came out at night (v. 21). Those living outside the city did not even return to their homes. Venturing outside Jerusalem at night would have also been a dangerous risk. They were so committed to rebuilding the walls that everyone at all times was prepared to defend the city. In fact, they were so committed that they didn’t even take off their clothes (v. 23).

Application

Nehemiah and his people were ready at any moment to defend Jerusalem. This is symbolic of the Christian who is involved in building for the Lord and at the same time, in warfare against the devil.  I should be so committed to the Lord’s work that I am always ready to build and to fight for Him.