Care for the Poor

 

Scripture: Nehemiah 5:11 (NIV)

Give back to them immediately their fields, vineyards, olive groves and houses, and also the interest you are charging them—one percent of the money, grain, new wine and olive oil.”

Devotion:

In Nehemiah 5, we witness a powerful narrative of justice and righteousness. Nehemiah, a man of God and a leader with a heart for the people, confronts the injustices perpetrated by the wealthy and powerful against the less fortunate. The chapter opens with a great outcry from the people suffering under the burden of debt and exploitation. They are forced to mortgage their fields, vineyards, and homes to buy grain during the famine. Some even sell their children into slavery to pay off their debts.

Upon hearing these cries, Nehemiah is deeply moved. He is angry, not only because of the suffering of the people but also because those causing this suffering are their own fellow Jews. Nehemiah calls a large meeting to address the issue. He confronts the nobles and officials, accusing them of exacting usury from their own people. He says, “What you are doing is not right. Shouldn’t you walk in the fear of our God to avoid the reproach of our Gentile enemies?”

Nehemiah’s appeal is not just a call for justice but also a call for repentance. He urges the wealthy to return the fields, vineyards, olive groves, and houses to the people immediately and stop charging interest. This bold demand underscores the urgency of justice and the necessity of immediate action.

To our amazement, the response is swift and positive. The nobles and officials agree to give back everything and to stop charging interest. They say, “We will give it back and will not demand anything more from them. We will do as you say.” This quick obedience is a testament to Nehemiah's leadership influence and the power of God’s conviction upon their hearts. Nehemiah then called the priests and had the nobles and officials take an oath to do what they had promised. He shakes out the folds of his robe and declares, “In this way, may God shake out of their house and possessions anyone who does not keep this promise. So may such a person be shaken out and emptied!” The assembly responds with a resounding “Amen” and praises the Lord.

The actions taken in Nehemiah 5 are a powerful reminder of how justice and righteousness can be restored when leaders stand up for what is right, and people respond in obedience. Nehemiah’s leadership is marked by compassion, courage, and a deep sense of justice. He champions the cause of the oppressed and confronts the oppressors with boldness.

As we reflect on this chapter, let Nehemiah’s example inspire us. Let us be advocates for justice, willing to confront wrongs and seek restoration for those who are suffering. And let us also be ready to respond with quick obedience when we are called to make things right, knowing that true repentance and justice bring glory to God and healing to His people.