# Connecting Statement:

This verse begins the prayer that Nehemiah begs Yahweh to listen to. (Nehemiah 1:5)

# may your eyes be open

"pay attention to me" 

# may your ear be attentive

"listen and pay attention" 

# so you may hear the prayer of your servant

"so that you may hear the prayer that I, your servant, am praying." The word "servant" refers to Nehemiah. This is how a person would address his superior in order to show humility and respect.

# day and night

"all the time" 

# Both I and my father's house

"Both I and my family"