The Old Testament book of Nehemiah tells the story of a remarkable hero of the faith who lived in an amazing era, when the Israelites were returning from exile and rebuilding Jerusalem. Nehemiah's story is especially encouraging when we stop to realize how faithful he was in the face of so many potentially discouraging situations. It is even more amazing when we see the image of Christ in him and how his life pointed people to Messiah, the one who gives hope eternal to those who trust in Jesus.