Have you ever pitched an idea to a group of decision makers? Maybe it was a class project, a business idea, or a sales presentation. It can take a lot of courage and preparation to research an idea and then have the guts to present it with confidence. Then, after working up to that moment, the decision is made, and your proposal is granted. This can be exhilarating until reality hits, and you realize now you have to put the plan into action. 

In Nehemiah 1, we see him respond in fasting and prayer, leading him to a time of repentance for the sins of his nation, family, and self. As he prayed, God stirred a burden in his heart that he had to do something to finish rebuilding the walls and gates of Jerusalem. As Nehemiah 2 begins, he had been waiting upon God for 4 months and was sensing the time to make his "ask" to the King was now, and the King approved Nehemiah's request to go to Jerusalem.  

Nehemiah's journey was just beginning. He travels to Jerusalem and now has to find out what is really going on. He knows the gates and walls are broken, but how to go about fixing them will be no small task for a King's Cupbearer. How will Nehemiah rally the people and deal with opposition? Getting permission to come to Jerusalem was just the beginning; now, Nehemiah has to come up with a plan and act.