Neh. 4-6
God’s work will always face opposition. This is because Satan, who has temporary reign in this world, opposes God and all who serve Him. It is a spiritual battle. As in any battle, it pays to know the tactics of your enemy. God’s word reveals much about how the devil likes to work. This story of Nehemiah and the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s wall is a great example. It is a great study on spiritual warfare. Throughout the story we see the lies, the discouragement and the fear that the enemy uses against Nehemiah and the Jews working with him. And we see how Nehemiah fights back with prayer and Godly living.
Nehemiah not only stayed focused on his task despite all of the opposition, but he was careful to make sure that both he and the people were staying in God’s favor. He called out the wealthy in the land for causing hardship to their fellow Jews. And he himself refused to gain any power or provision over the rest of the people due to his position of leadership over them. He gave generously to the people and engaged in the same work that he was requiring of them.
I believe it was because of Nehemiah’s constant prayers and faithful living that he was able to recognize the traps being set for him. He knew that Sanballat intended him harm when he attempted to draw him away from the work. And when Shemaiah and other so-called prophets attempted to lure him into a trap to discredit his name, he “understood and saw that God had not sent him” (Neh. 6:12a). You see, God’s sheep know their shepherd’s voice and they will not follow another. If we are to gain the discernment that we need to recognize the ploys of our enemy, we must stay close to our Shepherd, just as Nehemiah did.
Rev. 17
I am so glad the angel explained all of that. It is now absolutely clear as mud! I don’t mind a good riddle, but these riddles have me quite stumped. I’ll tell you one verse that spoke loud and clear to me, though. Revelation 17:14. “They will make war on the Lamb, and the Lamb will conquer them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those with Him are called and chosen and faithful.” Yes siree – Jesus wins and I’m with Him!!! Can I have an “Amen!”?!