Nehemiah- Rebuilding and Renewalනියැදිය

In any undertaking for God- in calling for spiritual renewal, joining in a kingdom-expansion project, or establishing a new beachhead in mission- there will always be some level of opposition. In this chapter, we see that those who had previously mocked and ridiculed the building project begin to increase their efforts and their volume against the Jews.

What began as a disturbance to this ‘principality’ (Neh 2:10), then expressed as ridicule and scoffing (2:19), is now becoming full blown, unmasked hatred and anger toward God’s people and project (4:1f). “He flew into a rage and mocked the Jews” (NLT).

As Christians we do not fight against flesh and blood but against spiritual principalities and powers (Eph 6:12), and there are some very interesting correlations here between the enemies of God in Nehemiah’s story and in our own.

First, look at how the people responded as the enemy tried to sow doubt in their work: they prayed (4:2-5). These were not soft, careful, pastoral prayers, but strong and clear. They cried out to God for vindication from their enemies! It’s time the people of God push back against spiritual forces that seek to sow doubt and confusion- especially during times of growth of the Church and expanded mission. Prayer is our weapon, and we have a defender in Yahweh (See Is 54:17).

Next, the enemy increases his intimidation (4:7-8), actively plotting against the people. I wonder whether for some Christians, if it’s not obvious we are in a spiritual battle, is it because have fallen asleep, or become so passive in our faith so as to be of very little consequence to the enemy?

It’s time to wake up! Rise up! Here, the strategy gets creative. In addition to prayer, guards are placed around the clock (v9), and a picture emerges of work and warfare operating together. The people “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” (V17-18). Work and warfare; building and guarding; establishing and protecting. This is the work of God’s kingdom today also: a clear mandate to partner with God in seeing His Kingdom come, to work with Him; and to stand guard against the schemes of the enemy, to make war on lies, deception and every kind of evil. Our weapons of warfare “have divine power to demolish strongholds”- arguments and pretensions that are against the knowledge of God (2 Cor 10:4-5).

Reflect:

How have you reacted to intimidation from spiritual enemies in the past?

How might God be leading you to exercise spiritual authority when Satan tries to sow doubt and hopelessness in your life?

Read Isaiah 54:17. What are the key words or phrases that you need to employ in spiritual warfare?

What does work and warfare operating together mean for you?