Fiery and Focused
– From Becoming A Fulfilled Father by Joyce Meyer
Nehemiah 4:1
But it so happened, when Sanballat heard that we were rebuilding the wall, that he was furious and very indignant, and mocked the Jews.
Nehemiah 4:14-20
And I looked, and arose and said to the nobles, to the leaders, and to the rest of the people, “Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, great and awesome, and fight for your brethren, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your houses.”
15And it happened, when our enemies heard that it was known to us, and that God had brought their plot to nothing, that all of us returned to the wall, everyone to his work. 16So it was, from that time on, that half of my servants worked at construction, while the other half held the spears, the shields, the bows, and wore armor; and the leaders were behind all the house of Judah. 17Those who built on the wall, and those who carried burdens, loaded themselves so that with one hand they worked at construction, and with the other held a weapon. 18Every one of the builders had his sword girded at his side as he built. And the one who sounded the trumpet was beside me.
19Then I said to the nobles, the rulers, and the rest of the people, “The work is great and extensive, and we are separated far from one another on the wall. 20Wherever you hear the sound of the trumpet, rally to us there.Our God will fight for us.”
Ephesians 6:12
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.
Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
When building or rebuilding a relationship with your child (or anyone else), you are not likely to experience physical threats along the way. However, there may be detractors and critics, perhaps even in your own home. Sanballat was angry that Nehemiah sought change. He felt threatened by Nehemiah’s vision.
You may have people in your life who actively discourage your new work. Most of the contention actually comes directly from Satan, who wants to steal, kill and destroy. Satan hates your newfound resolve and he will do all he can to derail your efforts.
These attacks may begin as whispers. Seeds of doubt quietly planted as you embark on the path. Then, they escalate. The enemy shouts and clamors wildly, trying desperately to convince you to focus on him instead of the task at hand. This is great news! As the attacks grow, it usually means we are getting closer to the target!
When this opposition arrives, remember:
Stay focused – work with one hand, fight with the other
Recite scripture – in your head, in the mirror and to others
Pray boldly – you definitely will fail if God is not with you
What may have seemed insurmountable to Nehemiah at the onset only took 52 days to complete. Not a long time.
Often, we imagine something as terribly difficult and painful, but when God directs our steps, it can bear fruit quickly and powerfully. The key is to get started. Soon, you will be looking back noticing, “Wow. That was not nearly as tough as I thought it would be!”
Remember, our God will fight for us.