Nehemiah 5:14
Moreover from the time that I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah, from the twentieth year even unto the two and thirtieth year of Artaxerxes the king, that is, twelve years, I and my brethren have not eaten the bread of the governor.
Cross-references
Nehemiah 5:18 explains why he did not take the allowance—because the people were burdened—directly expanding on the statement in verse 14.
In Nehemiah 13:6, the thirty-second year marks the end of the 12-year period Nehemiah served without food allowance.
In Nehemiah 2:1, the twentieth year of Artaxerxes is given — the same starting date for Nehemiah's governorship.
In 1 Corinthians 9:4-15, Paul defends his right to support but chooses not to use it — mirroring Nehemiah's refusal of the governor's allowance.
In 1 Corinthians 9:18, Paul preaches free of charge, not using his right — like Nehemiah not taking the food allowance.
In 2 Thessalonians 3:8, Paul works night and day to avoid being a burden — similar to Nehemiah not eating the governor's food.
In 2 Thessalonians 3:9, Paul says he had the right but gave it up to set an example — same principle as Nehemiah's voluntary sacrifice.