The Good WorkSample

What’s Next?

The wall is rebuilt! Yes, you read that sentence correctly. Here we are, a little over halfway through the book of Nehemiah, and Nehemiah’s work on the wall is already done, which might seem strange. We’re used to books ending with the hero reaching his goal. Why would the book of Nehemiah be any different?

Here’s what you need to remember: You might finish a work God’s given you, but God’s work is never really done. Not as long as we’re still here on earth. Finish one work, and there’s sure to be another in front of you. 

Nehemiah encountered this. After he finished the wall, he realized that, although the city of Jerusalem was large, there were few people in it. God led him to assemble the nobles, officials, and the families who inhabited Jerusalem before being carried into captivity and bring them into the city. There was work to be done. 

Then the people returned, and Nehemiah’s work still wasn’t done. In chapter eight, Nehemiah and Ezra sought to bring spiritual revival to all of the people of Israel. They assembled all of the Israelites in Jerusalem for a festival, which began with Ezra reading and teaching the Torah—the Book of the Law of Moses—to all the men, women, and children present. And once everyone heard it, a great celebration began as the people rejoiced in their understanding of God’s Word.

While our work for God will always be ongoing, it won’t always be filled with tough situations and unending opposition. We ought to rejoice in times of good and celebrate the successful completion of God’s work well done. These moments of temporary celebration will remind us to look forward to the day when, once and for all, God’s work will be complete, and we’ll rejoice together for the rest of eternity.

Consider: What work might God have in store for you next? How can you celebrate the work He’s already finished?