Definition: Yea, forty years didst thou sustain them in the wilderness, [so that] they lacked nothing; their clothes waxed not old, and their feet swelled not.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this biblical passage. It's a really important verse about how God cared for people who were struggling and living in difficult conditions. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Nehemiah was a leader of Jerusalem. He was trying to rebuild the walls of the city after a long period of conflict and chaos. These people were exiled – they were forced to live in the wilderness. This meant they were far from their homes, without food, water, or any familiar comforts. Think of it like being stranded in a really tough place with nothing to help you. They didn’t have much. The verse says their clothes weren't old, and their feet weren’t swollen – meaning they weren't struggling with discomfort or needing to repair things quickly. What does this tell us about God’s care? It tells us that God was incredibly attentive to these people, even when they were facing hardship. He didn’t just look away; he actively worked to ensure their basic needs were met – food, shelter, and comfort. He provided them with what they needed to survive and thrive despite the difficult circumstances. It's a powerful message about: God’s Presence: It shows that God is always present and involved in our lives, even when things are tough. Compassion & Support: He didn’t just ignore their struggles; he actively helped them maintain a basic standard of living. Faith & Perseverance: It emphasizes the importance of having faith and perseverance through difficult times. In short, the verse is a reminder that God loves his people deeply, even when they are facing hardship. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? Or would you like to explore another Bible passage? Perhaps you'd be interested in: Understanding the context of Nehemiah’s situation? Exploring the idea of God’s care and protection?