“O Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of your servant, and to the prayer of your servants who delight to fear your name, and give success to your servant today, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man” (Nehemiah 1:11 ESV).
Nehemiah prayed this after hearing the distressing news that the walls of Jerusalem were broken down and its gates burned. Though he served in the Persian royal court as cupbearer to King Artaxerxes, his heart remained with God’s people and God’s city. This news broke his heart, moving him to weep, fast, and pray for days. In his prayer, Nehemiah confessed the sins of Israel, including his own, and reminded God of His covenant promises to gather His people if they returned to Him. His closing petition in verse 11 reveals a posture that was humble—calling himself God’s servant; reverent—uniting with “your servants who delight to fear your name”; and dependent—asking God for success and mercy as he prepared to speak to the king. Though he held a position of influence, Nehemiah recognized that only God could move the heart of “this man” (the king) to grant his request. His prayer was firmly rooted in God’s promises and immediately paired with a plan to act.
Nehemiah’s example reminds us that godly action begins with a God-centered heart. When we are moved by a burden, we should first take it to the Lord in prayer, connecting our request to His Word and promises. We are to come humbly, knowing that we are His servants; reverently, delighting in the privilege of fearing His name; and dependently, asking for success and favor that only He can provide. But like Nehemiah, prayer should lead to action. We pray, then step forward in faith, trusting God to prepare the way before us.
PRAYER: Dear Father, we delight to fear Your name. When burdens weigh heavy on our hearts, teach us to bring them to You first, trusting in Your promises. Forgive us for acting without prayer or praying without acting. Grant us success today according to Your will, and mercy in the sight of those before whom we stand. In Jesus’ name, amen.