Many Jews had returned to Jerusalem after years of exile in Babylon. They had even rebuilt the temple which had been destroyed when Jerusalem was conquered. However, it came to Nehemiah’s attention that the walls were in a state of disrepair. The walls represented power, protection, and beauty for the city.

Nehemiah set about the work of rebuilding the city walls. He used careful planning, teamwork, problem-solving, and courage to get the work done; all the while listening for God’s direction and praying. Good mothers are the same way in that they surround their lives with prayer, offering up to God their problems, asking Him for direction, spending time in his Word, and covering their children and families with prayer as well.

This Mother’s Day, look for those among you whose day could use a special joy that you can bring, like the people did in Nehemiah's day.