Transcript:

Nehemiah 2:8—“And a letter unto Asaph the keeper of the king's forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the palace which appertained to the house, and for the wall of the city, and for the house that I shall enter into. And the king granted me, according to the good hand of my God upon me.”

Nehemiah’s success in obtaining the king’s approval was not the result of political skill or favourable circumstances alone. Before appearing before King Artaxerxes, Nehemiah had been fasting and praying to the Lord (Neh. 1:4; 2:1). His careful planning, respectful petition, and detailed requests for letters and timber (vv. 7–8) were all exercised in dependence upon God. Thus, when the king granted every request, Nehemiah did not praise his own wisdom or the king's generosity, but testified, “according to the good hand of my God upon me.”

The expression “the good hand of my God” is a recurring theme in Ezra and Nehemiah (Ezra 7:6, 9; 8:18; Neh. 2:18), emphasising God's gracious providence over His covenant people. The sovereign LORD who turns the king’s heart (Prov. 21:1) moved Artaxerxes to supply official protection, building materials, and authority for Jerusalem's restoration. God’s providence does not eliminate human responsibility; rather, it works through prayer, faith, diligence, and wise preparation to accomplish His purposes.

Believers today should likewise undertake every duty with prayerful dependence upon God. We may prepare carefully and labour faithfully, yet all success ultimately comes from His gracious hand (Ps. 127:1). When the Lord opens doors, provides resources, or grants favour beyond expectation, we must humbly acknowledge His sovereign goodness instead of taking credit for ourselves. Such gratitude glorifies God and strengthens our faith for future service. Those who rely upon the Lord can confidently persevere, knowing that His good hand is sufficient to provide every need for the work He has appointed them to do (Phil. 4:19).