This chapter contains another ledger of names of returned exiles, as well as a description of the wall and temple dedications.
“Then I brought the leaders of Judah up onto the wall and appointed two great choirs that gave thanks… So both choirs of those who gave thanks stood in the house of God, and I and half of the officials with me; and the priests… with trumpets… And they offered great sacrifices that day and rejoiced, for God had made them rejoice with great joy; the women and children also rejoiced. And the joy of Jerusalem was heard far away.” (v31, 40-41, 43)
Nehemiah appoints two great choirs and divided the leaders / Levites into two groups. Each group followed a choir as they paraded around the city worshiping God. The two groups eventually meet at the temple where the celebration continues and is so great that it carries far beyond the temple walls.
Where I live there used to be a stadium downtown and when bands would perform there, you could hear it several blocks away. I imagine this celebration was similarly loud, but much better – it was worship to the God of Israel, who keeps His promises and rescues souls.
When’s the last time we made a joyful noise unto God? I know many who attend weekly services where there is sung worship, though that’s only part of it. Many OT celebrations consist of massive public events full of cheers, loud instruments, choirs, and massive crowd participation. Of course, David also writes about celebrating / worshiping God when he’s alone. Singing in the car or shower, or praising God alone in a quiet place is also important (more than just once per week).
It’s also important to remember David models praising God when we ‘don’t feel like it celebrating’. Many psalms are laments (mournful cries), yet still honor and praise God at the same time.
I encourage us to spend regular, consistent time in worship, both alone and in community with others, especially in the midst of difficulty. No matter what circumstances we’re facing, God is still worthy of praise (it’s not His fault our sin brought pain, suffering and strife into this world). If we praise God in the worst of times, I’m pretty confident we’ll find His hand of blessing in it more than if we only praise Him in the best of times.
Father God, our Glorious and Magnificent Lord, You are more than worthy of all our praise. Please help us to praise You at all times, even when we’re mourning. Lord please forgive any sin, and lighten our burdens so we may praise You more joyfully and more frequently. May we leave our heavy burdens of worry and anxiety in Your capable hands. May we praise, honor and glorify You, with each and every breath, in the name of Jesus our King, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training