remind

“And I looked and arose and said to the nobles and to the officials and to the rest of the people, “Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes.”

Nehemiah 4:14 ESV

Live out the words of Nehemiah: Do not be afraid of them, remember the Lord, He will fight for you.

Friend, how have you been feeling lately? What has been consuming your thoughts? Nehemiah “mourned, wept and fasted,” over the destruction of the wall (Neh.1:4). The temple was stripped by the Babylonians during Jerusalem’s exile, the protective wall was broken, and the gates were destroyed by fire.

Despite hearing the news, Nehemiah was moved to act. It was a national emergency to rebuild the wall. He prayed to the Lord and the Lord answered his prayer. The Lord in His providence and sovereignty gave him favor with the King. Nehemiah went; He had to go. However, as plans were made and rebuilding started, opposition came. The Jews near the enemy’s camp repeatedly heard the threats of attack, death, and delay.

Nehemiah being solution-oriented and faith-filled advised the guards to be stationed in the vulnerable and exposed parts of the wall, and to protect the families. There was a solution for their fear—a barrier. What is protecting you? An even better question is who is protecting you?

Friend, if it isn’t Jesus Christ and God’s Word, it will fail you. It will leave you exposed and vulnerable like the wall of Jerusalem. It will not satisfy. It is unreliable. And if you think it can protect you, it will not. Brothers and sisters do not allow your fear to form you. Live out the words of Nehemiah: Do not be afraid of them, Remember the Lord, He will fight for you. 

Go in peace,
Ashley Lewis

reflect:

What scriptures can you cling to when you are afraid? What practical barriers can shield you from fear (Community, worship, prayer, gratitude)? 

additional reading:

 Isaiah 43:1-7 / Proverbs 18:10 / Philippians 4:8 / 1 John 4 / Nehemiah 1:5-10

centering prayer:

 O Lord, God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps his covenant of unfailing love with those who love him and obey his commandments. Please hear our prayer. Be our fortress, strong tower, and defender when we are afraid. May we lean on you and not our failing idols. in Jesus name, amen.