The World English Bible (WEB): Nehemiah

Nehemiah, a trusted cup‑bearer in the Persian court, receives distressing news about Jerusalem: its once‑great walls lie in ruin and its people live in shame. Overwhelmed, he spends days fasting and praying, pleading with God to restore the city and its covenant people. His heartfelt petition moves the king, who grants him safe passage, timber, and letters of support for the journey home.

Armed with royal credentials, Nehemiah travels to Judah and, under cover of night, inspects the broken ramparts and charred gates of Jerusalem. The sight of the devastated walls stirs a fierce resolve in him to rebuild what has been lost. He keeps his plan secret, sharing it only with a small, trusted group, setting the stage for a remarkable effort to unite the exiles and raise new walls.