Nehemiah 1:5
French S21 2007 (Bible Segond 21)
J’ai dit: «Eternel, Dieu du ciel, Dieu grand et redoutable, toi qui conserves ton alliance et ta bonté à ceux qui t'aiment et qui respectent tes commandements,
What Does This Mean?
Nehemiah is praying to God, calling Him the great and terrible God who keeps His promises and shows mercy to those who love Him and follow His rules. This verse shows Nehemiah's reverence and faith in God's covenant.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have a really big, strong friend who keeps all his promises and is always there to help you when you do your best to follow the rules you both agreed on. That's how Nehemiah feels about God.
Historical Background
Nehemiah 1:5 is from the Book of Nehemiah, written by Nehemiah himself around 445-430 BCE. Nehemiah was a Jewish leader who sought to rebuild Jerusalem and its walls after the Babylonian exile. This prayer reflects the faith and devotion of Nehemiah to God during a time of rebuilding and restoration.
Living It Out Today
In modern times, a person might use this verse to remind themselves of God's faithfulness when facing challenges at work or in their personal life. It can inspire them to stay committed to their faith and trust in God's promises.
Topics
prayercovenantmercyreverencefaithfulnessrestoration
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Nehemiah use the term 'terrible' to describe God?
Nehemiah uses the term 'terrible' to emphasize God's power and authority, indicating that God is to be greatly respected and feared, not in a negative sense but in a reverential one.
How does this verse connect to the theme of restoration?
This verse connects to restoration by showing Nehemiah's trust in God's promises and covenant, which underpin his efforts to rebuild Jerusalem and restore the Jewish community.
What does it mean to 'love God' in this context?
To 'love God' in this context means to have a deep, personal commitment to following God's commandments and showing reverence for God's attributes and promises.
How can this verse be used in a prayer?
This verse can be used in prayer to express gratitude for God's faithfulness and to ask for God's continued presence and mercy in one's life, especially during times of need or rebuilding.