Nehemiah was informed that Jerusalem was in ruins, with broken walls and burned gates. He was greatly saddened by this news and prayed to God for help. He received permission from the king to travel to Jerusalem to help rebuild the city. Upon arriving, Nehemiah surveyed the damage by night and worked to gain support of the local leaders to begin rebuilding the walls, motivated by ending their disgraceful state and trusting in God's favor.

1. Nehemiah ch 1-2