OBSTACLES
Nehemiah 3 and 4
“So we rebuilt the wall till all of it reached half its height, for the people worked with all their heart.”
Chapter 3 is a heartening passage. Everybody contributed what they could to the work, from priests to goldsmiths, perfume makers, people in authority; even daughters got involved. It wasn’t a question of ranking, job description, experience or even capacity; some did a lot, some just undertook to work on the wall in front of their homes; everyone worked side by side.
Into this picture of unity and industry came those who felt they were above menial tasks and supervision (some nobles), those who sought to sap their energy with criticism and ridicule, and even threats of violence. Discouragement set in and people were tired and fearful.
Nehemiah helped everyone to look to God to keep their spirits and hopes up, reminded them that they were working for a better life for their families, and got everybody involved to look out for each other as well as ensure that there were opportunities to rest.
“From that day on, half of my men did the work, while the other half were equipped with spears, shields, bows and armor. The officers posted themselves behind all the people of Judah who were building the wall. Those who carried materials did their work with one hand and held a weapon in the other, and each of the builders wore his sword at his side as he worked. But the man who sounded the trumpet stayed with me.”
This picture of the people of God working side-by-side with one hand and holding a weapon in the other perhaps can serve as a good reminder of how we should serve God in a hostile world. Even Jesus reminded us “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” We don’t serve God expecting that everything will go smoothly and easily and neither do we allow ourselves to be intimidated by opposition. We serve God because he is our God and ultimately our work will bless those we love.
“Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes.”