Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Nehemiah 4:10-15
In Judah it was said, “The strength of those who bear the burdens is failing. There is too much rubble. By ourselves we will not be able to rebuild the wall.” And our enemies said, “They will not know or see till we come among them and kill them and stop the work.” At that time the Jews who lived near them came from all directions and said to us ten times, “You must return to us.” So in the lowest parts of the space behind the wall, in open places, I stationed the people by their clans, with their swords, their spears, and their bows. And I looked and arose and said to the nobles and to the officials and to the rest of the people, “Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes.”
When our enemies heard that it was known to us and that God had frustrated their plan, we all returned to the wall, each to his work. (ESV)
by Linda Harris
Fear and discouragement overcame the workers on the wall. The work loomed as insurmountable and opposition threatened their lives. Nehemiah rallied the Jews, posted whole families as guards and reminded them of God’s plan.
When facing overwhelming tasks, we may become fearful and disheartened. If you have started a promise notebook (see Friday of lesson 4), look for some verses that assure the strength and presence of God. If you don’t have a notebook yet, here are some promises to get you started: “Remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20, HCSB). Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will hold on to you with My righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10, HCSB).
Copyright Information
Daily Bible Meditations are taken from The Helping Hand,a Sabbath School student quarterly for youth and adults. Copyright © 2008, Seventh Day Baptist Board of Christian Education, Inc.
Scripture quotations marked "ESV" are taken from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. Copyright ©2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Text provided by the Crossway Bibles Web Service .
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