Nehemiah 1-2

“O LORD God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, let your ear be attentive …” (1:5).  The Jews had lost their national independence and many were still in exile.  Nehemiah himself was a trusted official in the Persian empire.  But despite changes in global affairs and in Jerusalem, Nehemiah realized that God was exactly the same – still faithful, still loving, still able to answer prayer.

“They are your servants and your people, whom you have redeemed …” (1:10).  From beginning to end, God is God, and we are His redeemed people.  Always, we can pray and expect Him to hear us.