Ellen Chat Conversation

Ellen White explains that the work of rebuilding in Nehemiah's day is a symbol of "spiritual restoration" (PK 677.2). While the builders had to defend themselves against adversaries, the tools and the labor of their hands represent a "union of hearts as well as hands" (ChS 174.2) that is essential for repairing the spiritual breaches in God’s cause. In her analysis of this history, Ellen White notes that the builders faced constant opposition from adversaries who "weakened the hands of the people of Judah, and troubled them in building" (PK 594.2). Because of this, the work required both vigilance and active labor. She emphasizes that Nehemiah did not rely on authority alone but knowing that this unity was "essential to success in the great work which he had undertaken" (ChS 174.2). The tools used in this rebuilding represent the practical and cooperative effort to "raise up the foundations of many generations" (PK 677.2). This labor involves: * **Unity of Purpose:** A "union of hearts" among those working for God (SS 330.2). * **Sacrificial Service:** Leading men and the people and giving "freely of their meager store" (SS 289.3). * **Restoration of Truth:** Acting as a "repairer of the breach" and a "restorer of paths to dwell in" (PK 677.2). For practical application, this means that when we engage in God's work today, we must be prepared to both defend the truth and actively build up the community. The "tools" we use are our cooperative efforts, our resources, and our commitment to restoring the spiritual foundations that have been cast down. As Ellen White noted, the goal is to "build the old wastes" and . In summary, while the weapon represents defense against those who would hinder the work, the tools represent the collaborative, heart-felt labor of restoring God's truth and spiritual foundations in the world. --- 💡 **You might also want to explore:** • What did Ellen White say about how to handle opposition when doing God's work? • How does the "repairer of the breach" concept apply to the Sabbath? • What specific qualities did Nehemiah possess that made him a successful leader? --- 📚 **14 passages found** containing these search terms — [Explore in Full-Text Search](/advanced-search?q=%22rebuilding+the)