Father, what a lesson from Nehemiah!
Two things stand out for me that apply to Your people today.
1: that sometimes there is opposition when we are doing Your work, such that we must work with one hand on the task and one hand on the sword.
2: that we must not take advantage of or hinder our own people.
Father, whatever task, circumstance or relationship I’m involved with, help me see spiritual opposition. It may appear as overt resistance or an obstruction to what I’m trying to do. Or be an invisible undertone of grumbling, complaining, discouragement or division. Whatever the case, remind me that Your Word is my Sword – my weapon.
Your Word has power. It can overcome discouragement and repair disunity. It can change my focus, reveal truth and tear down the lies of the opposition; even change the hearts of those against me. Ready my mind, Lord, to prepare me to fight the battle however it presents itself.
As the Jews were hindering their brothers, I see that sometimes I work against myself and may not realize that what I am doing is preventing someone else from doing their job. Show me from Your perspective if I am in any way hindering a brother or sister. Show me how to encourage them and free them up to do what You have called them to do. As we work alongside each other for Your purpose, free us all to do our best.
I trust that You have prepared me for whatever comes against me, and for whatever task You have purposed for me to do. Open my eyes to see it all clearly.
Strengthen my arm to do the work. Sharpen my mind to know Your Word. Embolden my Spirit to go forward. “Instruct me and teach me in the way I should go; counsel me and watch over me.” And “I will rejoice in You and be glad. And “Shout for joy!” Amen
Daily Bible Prayer 