The Captives Who Returned to Jerusalem

Nehemiah 7:1–38
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In addition to repairing the walls, the builders repaired the gates. The porters, singers and Levites were given the responsibility of opening and closing them. Nehemiah, knowing that his enemies were still around, ordered these security measures. All the work on the wall would have been in vain if they were careless with the gates.

He appointed two governors to provide for the public peace and safety of Jerusalem. One of these was Hananiah, who had been ruler of the palace and it was said of him that “he was a faithful man and feared God above many” (v. 2). The other was Hanani, Nehemiah’s brother, who was a man of approved integrity and affection for his country. These rulers were ordered to see that the city gates were shut up and barred every night. The gates were not to be opened until midday and only when the guards were by them (v. 3).

Although the walls had been rebuilt, vast portions of the city were still lying in waste. Many of the houses were in ruins. Comparatively few people were residing in Jerusalem, so, Nehemiah was inspired to make a census of the people (v. 5). He knew that the safety of the city under God depends more on the number and attitude of the people than upon the height or strength of its walls.  Therefore, observing that many people who had formerly lived in Jerusalem now lived in the country, he set out to influence them to come back and rebuild their houses in the city. A list is given of those who returned (vv. 6-38). Part of this consists of 18 families and clan (vv.6-25) while the remainder contains the names of inhabitants from 20 towns and villagers (vv. 26-38).

Application

It is tempting to let down my guard and rest on past accomplishments after I have completed a large task. I must remember to continue to serve and to take care of all that God has entrusted to me.