Nehemiah 4:16-21
by Susanne Moore
In Choice 7 we talked about being on the offensive. Have you ever lived life in the defensive position?
After being deeply engrained in an abusive relationship, I was spending every moment on the defensive, walking on eggshells, people pleasing on both sides of the fence and running from God because I was embarrassed that I had reduced myself to such a doormat. It was not the first time in my life either, it was circular. After breaking free this time, I began to examine what happened leading up to my quick demise.
For almost a year prior the enemy had been dropping little lies and half-truths in my ear, chipping away at the hidden pain in my soul. I was rejected by someone I cared deeply for, deserted by a close friend, overwhelmed by attacks on my person and I felt deserted by other close friends and church leadership. In swoops the enemy, caught in the most vulnerable place possible; needy and lonely.
For four years I felt like I was sitting in a corner with my hands over my body and head just protecting myself from further blows. But, God says if you look out of your situation, he gives us the way out.
I Corinthians 10:13 “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”
As I peeked out of my hiding place I saw the light. God’s light, the truth shined like a lantern in the night beckoning me to run into his protective arms.
As he made a way of escape for me, I began this journey to truly become new. He led me to Nehemiah and showed me the steps to rebuild my life. Choice 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. Now choice 8, to keep watch over all the new.
Scripture reminds us often how to protect ourselves from the enemy infiltrating our camp. We cannot let down our defenses. God is the offensive line. He will fight for us. His word we must store up in our hearts. We must be watchful of our emotions because they lie. We must truly live in a posture of worship, prayer, study, and praise in our lives. Not on Sundays. We must be constantly watchful.
To be watchful is to be alert and aware; eyes always open, vigilant. Question every situation and test it against God’s word, his promises, his truth. Call on the name of the Lord. Protect yourself on every side. Just like they did in Nehemiah 4:16-21.
“From that day on, half of my servants worked on construction, and half held the spears, shields, bows, and coats of mail. And the leaders stood behind the whole house of Judah, who were building on the wall. Those who carried burdens were loaded in such a way that each labored on the work with one hand and held his weapon with the other. And each of the builders had his sword strapped at his side while he built. The man who sounded the trumpet was beside me. And I said to the nobles and to the officials and to the rest of the people, “The work is great and widely spread, and we are separated on the wall, far from one another. In the place where you hear the sound of the trumpet, rally to us there. Our God will fight for us.”
Do not miss the last phrase….Our God will fight for us.
He fought for me and he will fight for you as you keep watch over the new.
Join me next week as we talk about ways to remember God’s promises to us!!!
Susanne Moore 