It is very instructive to observe the approach which Nehemiah takes at the very beginning of his building project. When arriving in Jerusalem, he does not jump right into action! Nehemiah’s strategy is birthed in private! He takes three days; this would give him time to rest from his journey. This is often overlooked in our busy, hectic lives. The Lord Jesus told His disciples, “Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while” (Mk. 6:31). A dear older brother used to remind us, “Come apart and rest or you’ll just come apart!”

This privacy includes a secret investigation of the situation. Nehemiah does not assume he had all the answers, nor did he announce his arrival. He found a few men that he could trust and depend on, and together they inspected the walls. The word used twice in verses 13 and 15 for inspected means “to examine,” or “to view.” In fact, it means to look into something very carefully. It is a medical word for probing a wound. Nehemiah examines the condition of things personally, privately, and prudently.

There are many situations that come up in personal lives and in the life of the local assembly. It is easy to jump to conclusions, assuming we have all the answers. But Nehemiah would remind us to move slowly and silently, keeping the circle of those involved small at first until all the facts are known. This gives time for the Lord to reveal the needs and the right approach to meet those needs!

This was the strategy of Nehemiah, and it would be a good strategy for each of us today!