#2184 – Offensive & Defensive

Good morning people who protect their vulnerable positions

Nehemiah 4:10-14 (NIV) Meanwhile, the people in Judah said, “The strength of the laborers is giving out, and there is so much rubble that we cannot rebuild the wall.” Also our enemies said, “Before they know it or see us, we will be right there among them and will kill them and put an end to the work.” Then the Jews who lived near them came and told us ten times over, “Wherever you turn, they will attack us.” Therefore I stationed some of the people behind the lowest points of the wall at the exposed places, posting them by families, with their swords, spears and bows. 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.”

Even after we have prayed and been vigilant, things can become even more difficult.

In this story, people became very weary, they felt the task was impossible due to the obstacles, their enemies stepped up their attack from verbal ridicule to murderous threats, and their own people repeatedly told them they would be attacked wherever they went.

Maybe this is how you have felt at times.

“So what did they do?”

They protected their vulnerable positions – this is so important.

“Do you know where you are most likely to be attacked?”

You need to protect your mind and your life. You also need to feed on God-focused preaching and exhortation about the goodness and faithfulness of our God. Victory comes when we accept the invitation of God in both the offensive and defensive.

“What choices will you make today?”