“The God of Heaven will prosper us" (Nehemiah 2:20)
When trouble and opposition came to the builders, Nehemiah went on the offensive. He developed a powerful and positive strategy for battle against discouragement, danger, derision, discord, distraction, defamation and dismay. The antagonists were overcome and the builders succeeded because they applied five powerful principles that need to be implemented by the builders of the Kingdom today.
1. They prayed. The battles we fight must be bathed in the prayers of the saints. Satan levels the arsenal of hell against the builders of truth and righteousness. Prayer releases the power of God in our struggles. We cannot win alone! (Phil. 4:6; I Pet. 4:7; Eph. 6:18; Col. 4:2; James 4:2)
2. They were alert. Prayer must always be coupled with watchfulness. We must be aware of the enemy - his deception and cunning. His devices are clever and manipulative. (I Pet. 5:8; II Cor. 2:11) As builders, we cannot afford the luxury of apathy or indifference. (Matt. 26:41)
3. They were prepared. As they worked, they were prepared for battle. Nehemiah put a sword in one hand and a tool to build in the other. (Neh. 4:16-20) Build and battle at the same time. As builders, we must be suited up in our armor at all times. Put on the "whole armor of God" (Eph. 6:10-18). Satan is always looking for an opportunity to infiltrate. By keeping "all" the armor on at "all" times we'll be ready when the attack comes.
4. They were united. They worked with organization, cooperation and coordination. The phrase "and next to him" is repeated about 30 times in Nehemiah chapter three and suggests that the builders were a close-knit team. So, the body of Christ is "joined and knit together" which results in edification and growth. (Eph. 4:16)
5. They were determined. They would not be sidetracked or distracted by intimidation from without, or dismay from within. They had "a mind to work." With a focused, determined leader in Nehemiah, the builders persevered and in 52 days the walls were completed.
Read Nehemiah chapter 4 and note these five principles. The church will stand strong against the enemy when we apply these steadfast principles. Remember, a good offense is the best defense!
- via The Encourager, the weekly bulletin for the Calvert City Church of Christ, Calvert City, KY. Lance Cordle preaches for the congregation. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://www.calvertchurchofchrist.com
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