Nehemiah has a plan

In the 2nd chapter from the book of Nehemiah, he was serving wine to the Persian king when the king noticed Nehemiah was sad.

You see, Nehemiah had learned what had happened to Jerusalem and was troubled by it.

He prayed to God, then told the king why he was so sad.  He then asked if he could go to Judah to help rebuild the city.

The king agreed.  He also send letters to the leaders of the nearby provinces, instructing them to let Nehemiah and his people to travel safely through their territories.  Some of the leaders were not pleased by this as they did not want Jerusalem to be rebuilt.

Upon arrival, he went out at night to inspect the walls and gates.  He also prayed to God to help them succeed.  Even when he was offered help by those who were not Israelites, he told them that only those who are descendants of Abraham can lay claim to the city.