November 29, 2013 Walk With the King Daily eDevotional: A Prayer, A Sword, And A Trowel Dear Lewis, We made our prayer unto our God, and we set a watch against them day and night . . . for the builders, every one had his sword girded by his side, and so builded. (Neh. 4:9, 18) Nehemiahs story might well be titled, From bartender for Artaxerxes to builder for God. One day Nehemiah received news that the walls of Jerusalem were broken down, the gates burned with fire, and that the poor people left were in distress. Even though, as a captive in this strange land, he was in a somewhat favored position as the kings cupbearer, his heart ached for his brothers and sisters back home. True to his lifetime habit, the first thing Nehemiah did was pray. In answer to that prayer, Artaxerxes sent him with a delegation and supplies back to Jerusalem to rebuild the walls and to create order in the city. Not everyone was glad about this development, however. Indeed, some devious characters immediately conspired to keep Gods people from regaining any part of their former prosperity and influence. Throughout various episodes of conspiracy and intrigue, Nehemiah again and again turned to the Lord. Along with his praying, Nehemiah mixed courage and good sense. To the suggestion that he hold a summit conference, he said, I am doing a great work. Why should the work cease while I come down to you? To the whispered warning that someone was coming to kill him, and that he had better run and hide, he exclaimed, Should such a man as I flee! And to emphasize the strength of their determination to finish building the walls, Nehemiah put a trowel in one hand of his workers and a sword in the other. Watchfulness, prayer, and courage combined to give the victory! Small thought here You simply cannot improve on Nehemiahs formula for success: pray about things; face the facts; get people working; and dont scare easily. And when you have finished a job, give God the glory! (See Neh. 9:5.) Walk With the King, Inc.
Posted on: Fri, 29 Nov 2013 19:32:29 +0000
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