Nehemiah Chapter 4: Verses 14-15 (NLT)
Then as I looked over the situation, I called together the nobles and the rest of the people and said to them, “Don’t be afraid of the enemy! Remember the Lord, who is great and glorious, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes!”
When our enemies heard that we knew of their plans and that God had frustrated them, we all returned to our work on the wall.
There was great opposition to the rebuilding of the city walls in Jerusalem and on the face of things it seemed as though the efforts of the people would be easily overthrown. But even after Nehemiah had surveyed the situation, he could still encourage the people by reminding them that God was on their side. So, they returned to the work, thus encouraged, even in the face of those who opposed them.
When we face trial or opposition of any kind, we need to do as Nehemiah said to do – remember the Lord who is great and glorious and to press on in spite of the trials and opposition that may cross us. We remember that Herod was not pleased to hear of the news of Jesus’ birth, but God sent an angel to warn Joseph to go to Egypt.
Paul reminded the Roman church of the same thing when he said, “Since he did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won’t he also give us everything else? Who dares accuse us whom God has chosen for his own? No one—for God himself has given us right standing with himself”. (Romans 8:32 -33)
What an encouragement as we head towards the end of another year and into a new one! And that’s another reminder of why we should celebrate today why Jesus came.
Dear Lord,
Thank You for reminding us even today that if You are for us, then none can stand against us. I do need to remember that. And its only because Jesus made that possible. Thank You, Jesus – And Happy Birthday! Amen.