Nehemiah, a central figure in the post-exilic period of Israel's history, is renowned for his leadership in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. His account is a testament to personal bravery and unwavering faith in God, particularly highlighted in his refusal to take refuge in the temple—a decision that underscores his courage and integrity.

The account of Nehemiah's refusal is found in Nehemiah 6:10-13. During the reconstruction of Jerusalem's walls, Nehemiah faced numerous threats and opposition from surrounding enemies, including Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem. These adversaries sought to intimidate and discredit him, employing various tactics to halt the work and instill fear.

In Nehemiah 6:10, Nehemiah recounts a visit to the house of Shemaiah, who was confined to his home. Shemaiah advised Nehemiah to flee to the temple for safety, suggesting that his enemies were coming to kill him. "Let us meet at the house of God, inside the temple, and let us shut the temple doors, for they are coming to kill you—by night they are coming to kill you!" (Nehemiah 6:10).

Nehemiah's response is a profound demonstration of courage and discernment. He recognized the proposal as a trap, designed to make him act out of fear and violate the sanctity of the temple. Nehemiah replied, "Should a man like me run away? How can someone like me enter the temple and live? I will not go!" (Nehemiah 6:11). His rhetorical questions reflect his understanding of his role and responsibilities, as well as his commitment to God's law, which prohibited unauthorized persons from entering the temple's inner sanctum.

Nehemiah's refusal to seek refuge in the temple was not merely an act of personal bravery but also a declaration of faith. He discerned that Shemaiah's counsel was not from God but rather a ploy orchestrated by his enemies to discredit him. "I realized that God had not sent him, but that he had uttered this prophecy against me because Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him" (Nehemiah 6:12). Nehemiah's insight into the true nature of the threat exemplifies his spiritual discernment and reliance on God for protection.

This episode in Nehemiah's life illustrates the essence of true courage: the ability to stand firm in one's convictions and trust in God's providence, even in the face of danger and deceit. Nehemiah's leadership and personal bravery were instrumental in the successful completion of Jerusalem's walls, a feat accomplished in just fifty-two days despite relentless opposition.

Nehemiah's account serves as an enduring example of courage rooted in faith and integrity. His refusal to compromise his principles, even under threat of death, highlights the importance of steadfastness and trust in God's guidance. Through his actions, Nehemiah not only safeguarded the physical restoration of Jerusalem but also reinforced the spiritual fortitude of the Jewish community, inspiring future generations to remain faithful and courageous in their own walks with God.Nehemiah 6:10-13
Afterward I came to the house of Shemaiah the son of Delaiah the son of Mehetabeel, who was shut up; and he said, Let us meet together in the house of God, within the temple, and let us shut the doors of the temple: for they will come to slay you; yes, in the night will they come to slay you.
Nave's Topical Index

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... the people of the city had taken refuge, when a ... must have allowed Tyre to develop
and take the first ... as soldiers, that they displayed their bravery and gained ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

The Holy War,
... narration of the fall of man, our personal feelings are ... was a man of great strength,
resolution, and courage; nor in ... he cast them behind his back (Nehemiah 9:26 ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy war.htm

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