Next to Him

Nehemiah 3 tells the story of ordinary people taking their places beside one another to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. The repeated phrase “next to him” reminds us that God’s mission moves forward when every part of His people faithfully does its part. Some repaired large sections, others small ones, and some worked right outside their homes—but each was responsible to faithfully steward what God had placed before them. The chapter challenges us to humble ourselves and serve, to stop comparing our assignment with someone else’s, and to recognize what God has entrusted to us. It also reminds us that our faithfulness today can serve generations we may never meet. Ultimately, our service flows from Jesus, the King who stooped to serve us and gave Himself for our salvation. For a little while, God has entrusted a section to us—will we faithfully build what He has placed in front of us?