“We will not neglect the house of our God.” (Nehemiah 10:39b ESV)
After rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls under Nehemiah’s leadership, the people experienced a revival of worship and obedience. They listened to God’s Word read by Ezra, confessed their sins, and entered into a written covenant to live faithfully. This vow—“We will not neglect the house of our God”—was the climax of their renewed commitment. Before the walls were rebuilt, fear of enemies and spiritual apathy led to the temple being underfunded and neglected. But now, with the walls restored and hearts stirred, they pledged to bring tithes, offerings, and supplies to sustain worship, priests, and Levites.
How are broken walls and neglect of God’s house connected? Neglect of God leads to neglect of other things, which leads to brokenness, both in our families, our cities, and our nation. Neglect of God’s house often begins with neglect of God Himself. When our hearts grow cold, worship suffers, service wanes, and spiritual walls crumble. But when we humble ourselves, return to God’s Word, and seek His presence, the walls are repaired, and God’s work thrives. Today, “God’s house” can mean both our gathered place of worship and the living temple of our hearts. Are we giving God our best—our time, talents, and treasure—to sustain His work? Or have we allowed distractions, fear, or apathy to lead to neglect? The path to restoration is the same now as in Nehemiah’s day: humble ourselves, repent, seek His face, and recommit to faithful worship and service. When God revives His people, He also energizes them to restore the walls, bringing healing and new life to their families, churches, and communities.
PRAYER: Dear Father, we confess that in many ways we have neglected Your house. We’ve allowed our priorities to drift and our devotion to weaken. Forgive us. We humble ourselves, pray, and seek Your face. Heal the broken walls in our families, churches, and nation. Stir our hearts to give You our best, to serve joyfully, and to sustain Your work without neglect. In Jesus’ name, amen.