Devotional Scripture — Nehemiah 2
“Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem.”—Nehemiah 2:17
Nehemiah sensed that the Lord had called him to help his people and as the king’s cupbearer, Nehemiah had a relationship with King Artaxerxes that was built on trust. So when he asked the king for permission to rebuild the ruins of Jerusalem, the king provided building resources and Nehemiah set out to do this God given assignment. Now, when we have determined, through prayer and revelation, to do the Will of God, we can most assurdely expect opposition. That happened to Nehemiah. Sanballat and Tobiah wanted to stop the rebuilding project. “They were very much disturbed that someone had come to promote the welfare of the Israelites.” But I want you to notice that God doesn’t “wave his hand” to relieve Nehemiah of the struggle. He continues to work through the kings, people, and circumstances and Nehemiah trusts God enough to bring success to the assignment. Despite the heavy persecution and opposition, he believes the Lord is with him to the very end.
The Father has called us to rebuild the broken places of our world, community and families, and as we are advancing in the assignment we should expect that our work will face hinderances and setbacks from those assigned to oppose God’s plans. But I want you to rest assured that the Holy Spirit is diligently and faithfully working on our behalf, as He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:6).
Prayer
Father we count it an honor that you are working through us to rebuild the broken walls of our world so that it will bring glory to Jesus’ name. Lord, you have given us good work to do and we believe that Your Spirit will help us do our best, sustain us when trouble comes, and you will bestow favor and grace upon us to complete this assignment successfully. So be it unto your servant according to your Word – Amen.
Contributed by: Pastor Yolanda Douthit