They which builded on the wall, and they that bare burdens, with those that laded, every one with one of his hands wrought in the work, and with the other hand held a weapon
(Nehemiah 4:17).
Nehemiah was the cupbearer of the king of Persia. When he got to know about the condition of Jerusalem, the people of Jerusalem, and the temple, he took it upon himself to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. With the permission and assistance of the king, he journeyed to Jerusalem and aroused the people to join hands with him in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem.
Nehemiah was faced with an intense opposition when he decided to build the wall of Jerusalem. The Jews’ enemies were determined to stop the building by slaying the builders. But Nehemiah wasn’t ignorant of their evil plans and intentions.
As he led God’s people to build the wall, they prepared to ward off any form of attack. Each one held a weapon with the other hand, taking every necessary precaution against any onslaught from the enemy. This was written for our learning. Did Nehemiah and the children of Israel succeed in their God-given purpose? Of course yes!
In Nehemiah 12:43, when they had built the walls of Jerusalem and it was time for them to celebrate, the Bible says, “Also that day they offered great sacrifices, and rejoiced: for God had made them rejoice with great joy: the wives also and the children rejoiced: so that the joy of Jerusalem was heard even afar off.”
As Christians, we have to learn to be concentrated on the purpose God has put before us, despite the numerous challenges, issues and pressures we face in our world today. We must be prepared for any challenge and be determined to complete the purpose God has given us; just like Nehemiah and his people did in Jerusalem.
Prayer:
Precious Heavenly Father, I thank you for unconditional grace upon my life. I’m determined to fulfill my purpose on earth unto the spreading of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I’m not moved by any element of this world system, but concentrated on fulfilling my purpose by the the power of Holy Ghost, in Jesus’ mighty Name. Amen!
