It is instructive that Nehemiah’s immediate reaction to negative news is prayer. Though God has given humanity the responsibility to use our talents (Genesis 2:15), Nehemiah understands that any effort can succeed only with the Lord’s blessing (Psalm 127:1–2). So before he initiates any action, he goes to God to seek his blessing on his labour. This biblical principle is relevant for all times and places.
4 As soon as I heard these words I sat down and wept and mourned for days, and I continued fasting and praying before the God of heaven.