Living Water #697

LIVING WATER – EPISODE 697 || 30TH APRIL, 2026

By Solomon Uwumbolibe Mensah

EVERYONE HAS A PLACE IN GOD'S WORK

Scripture Reading: Nehemiah 3:1-2

“Eliashib the high priest and his fellow priests went to work and rebuilt the Sheep Gate. They dedicated it and set its doors in place, building as far as the Tower of the Hundred, which they dedicated, and as far as the Tower of Hananel. The men of Jericho built the adjoining section, and Zakkur son of Imri built next to them.”

Nehemiah chapter 3 marks the beginning of the actual rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. After receiving the vision, overcoming opposition, and mobilizing the people, the work finally commenced. What is remarkable about this chapter is that it records the names of ordinary people who participated in the rebuilding effort. God wanted future generations to know that great accomplishments are achieved when individuals faithfully perform their assigned tasks. These verses teach us important lessons about leadership, dedication, teamwork, and personal responsibility in the work of God.

1. Spiritual Leaders Must Lead by Example: The rebuilding began with Eliashib the high priest and his fellow priests. Rather than merely instructing others to work, they personally became involved in the project. Their example demonstrates that true leadership is not about position but participation. Leaders inspire others when they are willing to serve alongside them. In God's kingdom, leadership is demonstrated through action, humility, and commitment. When spiritual leaders take the initiative and faithfully engage in God's work, they encourage others to follow their example and contribute their efforts as well.

2. The Work of God Requires Dedication:  The priests rebuilt the Sheep Gate and dedicated it to the Lord. Their dedication reminds us that God's work should never be treated as an ordinary task. Everything done for God should be consecrated to Him and performed with reverence. The priests understood that rebuilding the wall was not merely a construction project; it was part of God's plan for restoring His people. Likewise, whether we serve in ministry, business, education, or our families, our work becomes meaningful when it is dedicated to God and carried out for His glory.

3. Every Section Matters: The priests rebuilt a specific portion of the wall, extending from the Sheep Gate to the Tower of the Hundred and the Tower of Hananel. This reveals an important principle: large projects are completed one section at a time. No individual rebuilt the entire wall, but each person took responsibility for a particular assignment. God's work advances when people faithfully fulfill the responsibilities entrusted to them. Sometimes believers become discouraged because their contribution seems small, but every section of the wall was necessary for the completion of the whole project. Faithfulness in our assigned area contributes to God's greater purpose.

4. God Uses Ordinary People: Verse two tells us that the men of Jericho and Zakkur son of Imri built adjoining sections of the wall. These were not necessarily famous leaders or powerful individuals, yet God recorded their names and contributions in Scripture. This reminds us that God values faithful service regardless of a person's status or recognition. The kingdom of God advances through the efforts of ordinary men and women who are willing to make themselves available. God is not looking primarily for extraordinary talent; He is looking for willing hearts that are committed to His purposes.

5. Success Comes Through Cooperation: The rebuilding effort was successful because people worked side by side. The priests built one section, the men of Jericho built the next, and Zakkur built another. The wall was restored because individuals and groups cooperated toward a common goal. God's work has always depended on unity and teamwork. The Kingdom of God functions best when believers use their gifts together rather than competing against one another. When everyone contributes according to their ability and calling, great things can be accomplished for the kingdom of God.

6. Build Where God Has Placed You: Many of those who rebuilt the wall worked in areas close to where they lived or served. They did not wait for a more prestigious assignment; they faithfully worked where they were. God often calls us to begin serving in the place where He has positioned us. Instead of focusing on what others are doing, we should concentrate on faithfully building the section entrusted to us. Whether in our home, workplace, church, or community, God has given each of us a place to serve and a responsibility to fulfill.

Nehemiah 3:1-2 teaches us that God's work progresses when leaders lead, people dedicate themselves to the task, individuals accept responsibility for their assigned areas, and everyone works together in unity. The rebuilding of Jerusalem's wall was not accomplished by one great person but by many faithful workers. Likewise, God continues to accomplish His purposes through ordinary people who are willing to serve. May we be found faithful in the section of the wall God has entrusted to us.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that each of us has a place in Your work. Help us to serve faithfully where You have called us. Give us hearts that are dedicated to Your purposes and willing to work alongside others in unity. Teach us to value every contribution and to use our gifts for Your glory. May our lives be like strong stones in the building of Your kingdom. In Jesus' name, Amen.