SPIRITUAL GEMS: Week of July 31 to August 6, 2023, Nehemiah 3 to 4, Answers.

SPIRITUAL GEMS: 31-July-6-August-2023, Nehemiah 3 to 4, Answers.

Spiritual Gems (10 min.)

Ne 4:17, 18. How could a man work on the reconstruction with one hand? (w06 2/1 9 ¶1)

For those carrying materials, this would not be a problem. Once the charge was placed on the head or shoulders, they could easily be held in one hand, "While with the other hand I held the projectile." The builders, who needed both hands to work, were girded, each with his sword on his hip, as they built. They were all ready to repel an enemy attack at any moment.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Those carrying materials could easily support us with one hand while having the other hand ready to wield a projectile or weapon to defend themselves. On the other hand, builders who needed both hands to work maintained an attitude of constant alertness and readiness. They wore a sword belted on their heads, allowing them to be ready to repel any attack that might come at any moment.

This attitude of being prepared to defend themselves while they worked on the reconstruction of the wall, shows their commitment and courage to face adversity and protect the work they were doing. Applying this lesson to our spiritual life, we are taught the importance of being alert and prepared to face the challenges and oppositions that may arise while carrying out our service to God.

Just as those builders were prepared to withhold physical attacks from their enemies, we too must be prepared to defend our faith and beliefs when faced with their position or questioning. This involves standing firm in our convictions, strengthening ourselves by studying God's word, and being willing to give reasons for our hope with love and respect.

Working with one hand was no problem. Once the workers carrying materials put the load on their heads or shoulders they could hold it with one hand while holding the sword with the other hand. On the other hand, the builders who needed both hands to work, tied their swords to their waists and thus had both hands free to continue building. In this way, both groups were working at the same time as they were ready to repel an enemy attack that arose at any moment.

This was not a problem for them. Once the charge was placed on the head or shoulders, they could easily hold it with one hand, while the other hand held the projectile. This is a good example for everyone, since working with one hand might seem like an obstacle, but we saw that this was not the case for them.

What spiritual pearls have you found about Jehovah, the ministry, and other topics in this week's Bible reading?

Nehemiah 3:1. It teaches us that whatever the privilege we have, we can all put on our work clothes, to support, collaborate in the maintenance tasks of our Kingdom Hall, this helps us cultivate a positive attitude in our service to Jehovah.

Nehemiah 4:17. Just as the builders were ready to repel any attack from the enemy, we too must be active and vigilant in serving Jehovah, prepared to uphold the truth and worship God at all times. This is accomplished through constant Bible study, strengthening our faith, and a willingness to share our beliefs with love and wisdom.

Nehemiah 4:16. This text also teaches us collaboration with our brothers in faith. Just as these men supported each other in construction and the others defended against enemies, mutual support between brothers in faith is essential. By surrounding ourselves with spiritual brothers who share our beliefs and values, we will be able to provide mutual support and encouragement during difficult times. Together, we can face adversity and move forward in our worship of Jehovah with greater strength and determination.

Nehemiah 4:16. We see the importance of combining trust in Jehovah with action, since we should not wait idly. Applying this lesson to our spiritual lives, it is essential to trust in Jehovah and his guidance in all situations. However, we must also do our part by taking practical and responsible actions by studying the Bible and applying its teachings in our daily lives, strengthening ourselves spiritually and preparing ourselves to face challenges that may arise.

Nehemiah 4:7-9. He teaches us to trust in Jehovah and to resort to prayer in times of adversity. Furthermore, it shows us the importance of taking practical steps and being vigilant in our spiritual life in order to face challenges with courage and wisdom. Trusting in God and acting with faith and prudence will allow us to overcome any obstacle and continue serving him faithfully.

Nehemiah 4:1. This text teaches us that there will always be people who do not support our dedication to Jehovah and may resort to ridicule, apathy, or opposition. And the lesson for us is that we must stand firm in our convictions, trust in God's protection and support, and use challenging experiences as opportunities to strengthen our faith and spiritual commitment. 

Nehemiah 3:14. The promise that Jehovah made to the Rechabites for their faithfulness and obedience, was that the Rechabite family would not be left without men before him. This promise was fulfilled, since in the time of Nehemiah, a descendant of the Rechabite family, Marquiya, he was involved in the rebuilding of Jerusalem. The lesson here is that Jehovah is faithful to his promises. The Rechabites were faithful to Jehovah, and as a result, he kept his promise that there would always be men of his family before him, so we can fully trust God's promises.

Nehemiah 3:5. He mentions that some individuals who had a high status or an important position in society such as the majestic ones, refused to humble themselves and obey Nehemiah's directives, despite the fact that he had been appointed to lead this important task. What it teaches us is that pride can lead people to refuse to submit to the authority of those whom God has appointed to lead his organization on earth, as the faithful and prudent slave.

Nehemiah 3:10,23. In these texts we note how these men and their families supported true worship by doing their part close to home. This teaches us that it is not necessary to move to be able to support true worship, since we can do it from our community and Jehovah values ​​this very much.

Nehemiah 4:16-22. In this text he shows that Nehemiah established vigilance shifts to protect himself from enemies, recognizing the importance of being alert and prepared to defend himself. As at present we are also exposed to being attacked especially in a spiritual sense. These verses teach me that we must protect our faith and be vigilant in defending our Christian integrity.

Nehemiah 4:14. Today Jehovah's servants live in a spiritual paradise. However, we must not neglect ourselves in order to continue protecting this fortification from the attack of the enemy. In this sense, this verse encourages us to imitate the Israelites of Nehemiah's day, who worked with one hand while holding the sword with the other to defend themselves.

Nehemiah 4:7-11. It shows how a coalition of enemy forces conspired to riot and exert pressure to stop the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem. But Jehovah's servants continued to work with one hand while with the other they protected themselves from the attack of their enemies holding a sword. Today, Satan continues to try to stop the work of the Kingdom, exerting pressure on the entire world and especially on Jehovah's people. So we must imitate the courage and the way of working of these servants of the past.

Nehemiah 4:1. This text shows us that we live in a world surrounded by evil and it is not surprising that the people of this system do not like us, just like the Jews who made fun of them, we can also expect the same for fulfilling our service .

Nehemiah 4:14. This text also teaches us that as in the days of Nehemiah, it is not the time to be inactive nor to be irregular in the Service. Regardless of personal circumstances, each of us must find ways to be vigilant and active. And even if it is one-handed, so to speak, we must continue to work so as not to make things easy for the enemy.

Nehemiah 4:12. This reading teaches us that shortly, Jehovah will take action to carry out his purpose. But before the nations will line up to fight against the people of God, but there is nothing to be afraid of because he is going to protect the people from him.

Nehemiah 4:6. This text encourages us that when it comes to being in any construction, we must put our whole heart to ensure that everything is done for the glory of God.

Nehemiah 4:14. This reading motivates us to encourage our brothers with our words and trust in Jehovah, if we do so, we will encourage them to continue on the path of the just path.

Nehemiah 4:9. This verse shows us the importance of prayer, so we have to make time to pray to Jehovah at all times.

Nehemiah 4:8-9. In the texts we observe the reaction of the enemies of true worship, they took up their swords to fight against Jerusalem. But Nehemiah always trusted in Jehovah and encouraged the people. This teaches us that today in some countries, the enemies of true worship are an overwhelming force, but Christians trust that Jehovah will fight for us, we must trust that Jehovah answers our prayers and thwarts the plans of the most powerful enemies. that are.

Nehemiah 4:1-3 . In the text we observe the opposition that Nehemiah was suffering, but we noted the excellent reaction to the attacks of his enemies, he did not pay the slightest attention to the mockery, he left all things in the hands of Jehovah, that is why he addresses Jehovah in prayer, because he fully trusted him. This teaches us that we may also have to endure ridicule and slander that may be prevented from fellow students or co-workers or even family members, but just like Nehemiah did, we must not allow enemies to distract us from our commission to preach the Good news of the Kingdom of God.

Nehemiah 4:2. This reading shows us that at present some people and some nations will think that the people of God are weak, but it is not so, Jehovah provided courage to his servants so that they can face any test, this is a great guarantee, since We have an Almighty God.

Nehemiah 4:16-22. We see that despite the intimidation, Nehemiah and the people persevered and did not give in to obstacles. On the contrary, they continued advancing through the obstacles. This teaches me that we must be brave, constant and persevering in our faith and above all, very hard-working in the work that Jehovah has entrusted to us. And though we face, we must never give up. Rather, we must trust that Jehovah will help us to move forward.

Nehemiah Chapter 3. Shows the importance of collaboration within Jehovah's people. This chapter records how different groups of people worked together to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem and how each of them had an assigned section. This teaches me that I must make myself available to collaborate whenever my help is required.

Nehemiah 3:5. We must not consider degrading the manual work that is done in favor of true worship, as the majestic Tecoites did, rather, we must imitate the common Tecoites who worked with pleasure.

Nehemiah 3:5. In this text we also see that when he says important men, he refers to prominent Jews from among the inhabitants or former residents of Teqoa, a city located about 10 miles south of Jerusalem. This is probably important, they were too proud to humble themselves under the overseers Nehemiah had appointed. This text teaches us that we should not be like them, we should always be humble when receiving indications from our beloved superintendents and brothers who lead the congregation. Since these brothers have been appointed by Jehovah.

Nehemiah 4:4,9. It shows how in the midst of opposition, Nehemiah and the people turned to prayer and asked Jehovah for strength and protection. This teaches me that when we face challenges we must turn to Jehovah in prayer, because he is our refuge and strength in times of distress, danger or need.

Nehemiah Chapter 4. Shows that Nehemiah and all who participated in the rebuilding of Jerusalem faced opposition and ridicule from their enemies. This teaches me that when Jehovah's people embark on important work to further the kingdom work, they face opposition and resistance. However, like Nehemiah and the people of old, we must persevere and continue to trust that Jehovah has everything under his control.

Nehemiah 3:5-12. It shows that Salum was a prince, his daughters were willing to collaborate in the reconstruction, a difficult and dangerous task. they showed an attitude very different from that of the important men of the Tecoitas, who did not want to lower themselves to work. This teaches me that since ancient times the women of Jehovah's people have been delighted to participate in a special feature of service, such as the construction and maintenance of dedicated buildings, playing a key role in this very imitable work.

Nehemiah Chapter 3. It also stands out in the times of Nehemiah, very great things could be achieved and today, Jehovah continues to bless the collaborative spirit of his servants and their willingness to work together in the work of the Kingdom.

Nehemiah 3:5. We can also give this text another application, since it reminds us of our Lord Jesus Christ, being who he is, he washed the disciples' feet, but they did not want to wash each other's feet, this makes us think about how we see certain tasks such as cleaning, maintenance, contributing money for repairs. Without a doubt, our example can motivate the brothers to do their best.

Nehemiah 3:11-18. It teaches us that when we all fulfill our assignments, we help the smooth running of the congregation, but when we don't, we set the congregation back. Without a doubt, this motivates us to complete our assignments with a good attitude and value the work of others.

Nehemiah 3:11-16. He mentions that both Nehemiah and the princes were involved in the repairs, this teaches us that a good leader does not just say "Do so", but rather "let us do so".

Nehemiah Chapter 3. Shows that goldsmiths and merchants contribute to the reconstruction. This teaches me that regardless of social status or profession, each person in Jehovah's people can play an important role, as long as I am willing to do so.

Nehemiah 3:20. He mentions that Baruc worked very hard, this teaches us the importance of working hard, since it is so easy to be tempted to evade work, or to do things halfway, or poorly done, that is why the Bible says that let us work heartily for Jehovah as Colossians 3:23 mentions.

Nehemiah 4:14. We can also give this same text another application, since it shows the importance of giving encouragement, and it teaches us that perhaps with just a few words of encouragement we can get our inactive or irregular brothers to return to work with enthusiasm.

Nehemiah 4:18. It teaches us that we should not make excuses or get caught up in the inconveniences, but rather look for solutions. There it is said that the people were rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem and had to do three jobs at once: Build with one hand, stay alert and be armed in case of attack. However, they did not make excuses, but instead went ahead and succeeded. Today we can also fulfill our family, work or study responsibilities and also with service responsibilities and with our spiritual activities.

Nehemiah Chapter 3 . In this Chapter it also shows that each person mentioned had a specific section of the wall assigned to rebuild. So everyone had to take responsibility for it and work diligently on it. This teaches me the importance of taking personal responsibility for my spirituality and service to Jehovah and for his specific role in God's purpose. For which we must strive to fulfill it faithfully.

Nehemiah 3:10,23,28-30. Although some may move to where the need for Kingdom proclaimers is greatest, many of us support true duration from our locality. We do it by taking part in the construction of Kingdom Halls and Relief work when disasters occur, but above all, by preaching the Kingdom.

Nehemiah 4:1-2. He teaches us about being strong and not giving in to criticism, negative comments, and even ridicule in our Christian life. Since we will find people like Sambalat who criticize negatively, they even mocked us for doing the right thing, but in the end, wisdom is proven just by their works.

Nehemiah 4:10. You teach us about being tired, the enemies knew that they were tired and that it would be easy to attack them, but the Israelites united and did not give up, our enemies know that if we get tired we will be vulnerable and easy to attack, but if we take an attitude to the spiritual defense and unity as a congregation we will be able to overcome and continue faithful until the end.

Nehemiah Chapter 3. Shows that as the walls were being built, Nehemiah and his team faced challenges and obstacles. However, they did not get discouraged or give up. They continued to work and overcome the problems that arose. This reminds me that in the Kingdom work we also face difficulties and obstacles. So we must persevere and trust that Jehovah will help us overcome them, just as he helped in the days of Nehemiah.

Nehemiah 4:14. When we face opposition, we too can overcome fear by keeping in mind the one who is the great and fear-inspiring.

Nehemiah Chapter 3. In this chapter we also see that Nehemiah assigned different people and groups to rebuild specific sections of the Jerusalem Wall. Although each one had a specific objective, the work of all made it possible to reach the general objective. This teaches me that those who have gifts and abilities or some special skill can use it for their own benefit. But in the same way, they must make it available to others, especially available to Jehovah to be used in the work of the Kingdom.

Nehemiah 4:14. This text also shows that our sword in a spiritual sense is the Bible, how important it is to bring the Bible to preaching and meetings, and not just carry it, but also have it in our minds and hearts.

Nehemiah Chapter 3. It also shows the importance of our unity and solidarity. For this chapter highlights how some refused to work on the rebuilding of Jerusalem and how others worked together, even the priests and the Levites who normally had different mistakes and responsibilities. This teaches me that in the work of the kingdom, regardless of the privileges in the congregation or the responsibilities in Jehovah's organization, we must all work United and with a common purpose, the honor and glory of Jehovah.