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Nehemiah 2:1-8 – Praying through the Bible #148 – A Prayer in a Blink of an Eye
“Help!” Ever pray that concisely and clearly? A good friend said many of his prayers are just that – a one word exclamation begging for divine intervention.
Most likely Nehemiah has been praying for 4 months before being questioned by the king (1.1; 2.1). Most likely part of his praying is pleading for an opportune time. Privately he is praying, but publically he has never been sad in the king’s presence (2.1). His job description as cupbearer does not include sharing his personal feelings with the king.
Imagine the weariness of having to fake and pretend for all to see – so as to not see – not being burdened. Many have no need to imagine; we have lived or are living this. Then one day, the protected, hidden burden leaks from our soul onto our face, shoulders, and gait. Something is wrong, and now anyone who cares can see.
When King Artaxerxes asks, “Why are you sad, when you aren’t sick? This is nothing but depression,” Nehemiah is “overwhelmed with fear” (2.2). Persian kings were autocratic (Esther 4.11). Coming into their presence and ruining their good mood could be lethal! Nehemiah explains, “May the king live forever! Why should I not be sad when the city where my ancestors are buried lies in ruins and its gates have been destroyed by fire?” (2.3). Do you remember in A Christmas Movie when finally, the mother asks Ralphie what he wants for Christmas? Ralphie: “I want a Red Ryder carbine action two-hundred shot range model air rifle. Oooooooh!” He’s thinking, “That was too direct.” Mother: “No, you’ll shoot your eye out.” Finally Nehemiah has his opportune time. Does he ruin it with such an abrupt answer? We have no idea if there is a pause after this emotional expulsion before the king speaks (2.3-4). Even if it was for one second, we can imagine that one second seemingly lasting way too long. Four months of praying and this is it. No doubt Nehemiah had rehearsed what he would say if given the chance; such is only natural, and I’ve done it myself. Verses 6-8 shows he was prepared.
Providentially the king asks, “What is your request?” (2.4). “So I prayed to the God of heaven and answered the king” (2.4-5). Think Nehemiah tells the king, “Let me get back to you on that after I pray?” Does anyone picture this: Nehemiah gets down on his knees to pray, making the king wait? Or, is this an example of a prayer in a blink of an eye – or with eyes wide open – silently screaming “Help!” or maybe “Thanks!”
Communication to God can be physically demonstrative, prostrate, kneeling, standing, or raising hands. Sometimes it can be solemn, eyes closed, closing out the world. Then there are the times when there is no time for anything but “Help!” If so, pray “Help!”
Prayer Challenge: Prayer doesn’t have to be time-consuming; but understand there is always time for prayer, even if it is just “Help!” or “Thanks!”
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