27 Now at the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem they sought out the Levites from all their places , to bring them to Jerusalem so that they might celebrate the dedication with gladness , with hymns of thanksgiving and with songs to the accompaniment of cymbals , harps and lyres .
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Nehemiah 12:27
Commentary on Nehemiah 12:27-43
(Read Nehemiah 12:27-43)
All our cities, all our houses, must have holiness to the Lord written upon them. The believer should undertake nothing which he does not dedicate to the Lord. We are concerned to cleanse our hands, and purify our hearts, when any work for God is to pass through them. Those that would be employed to sanctify others, must sanctify themselves, and set themselves apart for God. To those who are sanctified, all their creature-comforts and enjoyments are made holy. The people greatly rejoiced. All that share in public mercies, ought to join in public thanksgivings.