Hello Friends, we continue with the series on building. Incase you have not read this post, you can find it here. We shall cover chapter 4 to 6 of the book of Nehemiah .
Chapter 4
- Whenever God wants to partner with men to build, expect opposition. We see this in Nehemiah when he encounters opposition from Sanballat and Tobias. One of the tactics such enemies will use is mocking God’s people and their work (verse 1-3)
- While we are commanded to pray without ceasing, In the face of opposition, intensify your prayers. This is not a time to be prayer-less (verse 4)
- Despite the opposition, keep building and do not get distracted. (verse 6)
- Look to God for divine protection as the enemy will try to release confusion to intercept God’s plans as we partner with Him to build (verse 7-9).
- It is very likely that the taunts of our enemies can begin to wear us out. Therefore it is important we are careful of the words we utter when weary. Remember that our words are powerful (verse 10).
- Be vigilant when building. Do not drop your guard during the building process. With one hand the Israelites build while carrying a weapon in the other hand. (Vs. 18-23)
Chapter 5
- Always speak against injustice in society (Vs. 6-10)
- Part of rebuilding is restitution by returning all that was giving back everything that taken from others unfairly. (vs 12)
- Always uphold justice and do not take advantage of the poor as this lead to a curse befalling a person. People of God should not oppress one another (vs12-14)
- God rewards kindness. Instead of taking from people, be a giver. (vs 16-19)
Chapter 6
- Nehemiah 6:3 says But I realized they were plotting to harm me, so I replied by sending this message to them: “I am engaged in a great work, so I can’t come. Why should I stop working to come and meet with you? Stay focused when building (Verse 1-3)
- When they are unable to stop you from building, a tactic enemies will attempt to use is lies and slander (Verse. 6&7).
- The aim of intimidation is to cause fear. DO NOT BE AFRAID (Verse 8-11)
- Be mindful of the people you listen to in the face of opposition as some advise may be coming from people planted by your enemies to destroy you. (Verse 10-11)
- Ask the Lord for discernment (Verse 12-13)
- Most importantly, building can only be accomplished by the hand of God. Do not rely on your own strength
Nehemiah 6:16 The Builders Complete the Wall So on October 2 the wall was finished—just fifty-two days after we had begun. When our enemies and the surrounding nations heard about it, they were frightened and humiliated. They realized this work had been done with the help of our God.
