Nehemiah 2:2

Wherefore the king said vnto me, Why is thy countenance sadde, seeing thou art not sicke? this is nothing else but sorrow of heart. Then I was very sore afraid, Nehemiah 2:2 (KJV)

is thy countenance sad, seeing thou

art not sick? this

is nothing

else

but sorrow of heart. Then I was very sore afraid, Nehemiah 2:2 (KJV)

Context and Background: The book of Nehemiah is set during the time when the Israelites had returned from Babylonian exile. The city of Jerusalem had been destroyed, and its walls and gates lay in ruins. Nehemiah, who was living in Persia, was burdened by the news and desired to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls to restore the city’s security and honour.

Nehemiah’s Countenance: In this verse, Nehemiah is in the presence of King Artaxerxes I, and the king observes that Nehemiah appears sad. The king asks him why he is sad when he is not sick. The king notices that Nehemiah’s sorrow is not due to a physical ailment but a matter of the heart.

Nehemiah’s Fear: Upon being questioned about his sadness, the king identifies the cause as sorrow of heart. This reveals the depth of Nehemiah’s emotional state and his concern for the state of Jerusalem. The verse concludes with Nehemiah expressing that he was “very sore afraid.” This fear may stem from potential consequences for displaying sadness before the king, as it was customary for attendants to maintain a cheerful disposition in the king’s presence.

Nehemiah’s Concern: Although the verse does not mention a sad countenance, Nehemiah’s deep concern for Jerusalem’s condition is evident throughout the book. His heartfelt distress over the ruined walls and the plight of his people motivates his appeal to the king.

The Importance of Genuine Emotion: Nehemiah’s countenance reflected his true feelings, and it demonstrates the significance of being honest with our emotions. It is essential to acknowledge and express our concerns and sorrows genuinely before God and others.

God’s Timing and Sovereignty: Nehemiah’s encounter with the king happened at a specific moment when God’s plan was set in motion. God orchestrated events in Nehemiah’s life to bring about the rebuilding of Jerusalem. This reminds us that God works through various circumstances and people to fulfill His purposes.

Courage in the Face of Fear: Although Nehemiah was afraid, he did not allow fear to paralyse him. Later in the book, we see Nehemiah’s courageous leadership in spearheading the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls, despite facing opposition and challenges.

The Power of Prayer: In the following verses, Nehemiah’s prayer to God plays a pivotal role in his journey. It highlights the significance of seeking God’s guidance, strength, and wisdom in times of need.

Overall, Nehemiah 2:2 serves as a starting point for Nehemiah’s remarkable journey to restore Jerusalem. It emphasises the importance of honesty, courage, and reliance on God’s providence in fulfilling His plans.