Remember the Lord

After I looked things over, I stood up and said to the nobles, the officials, and the rest of the people, “Don't be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes.” – Nehemiah 4:14

The construction of the wall has started and so have Nehemiah’s headaches. Sanballat and his friends are taunting the brave cupbearer, making false accusations against him. The people of Judah are complaining that there’s too much work to do. Some of the Jews are causing a panic by warning Nehemiah that they’ll soon be under attack.

If there were ever a moment to throw up his hands in despair, this was it. Nehemiah must have had days where he felt more like a circus ringmaster than a determined leader of God’s people.

But still, listen to his words of encouragement to the people, “Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord who is great and awesome.”

When you’re going through difficult times, it’s easy to get caught up in a panic over what your enemy is planning. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed at the size of your task. It’s normal to worry that you won’t be able to overcome.

But before you give into all of those emotions swirling around, pause and remember. Remember Who your God is and the amazing things He has done!

God, I confess that I’m tempted to panic right now. Help me to slow down and remember who You are. You are entirely faithful, and I can rest in that knowledge today! In Jesus' name, Amen.