Nehemiah shows us something that most of us know — but don’t always want to admit. We rarely drift away from what matters because of just one massive decision. For the most part, we drift through small distractions, quiet compromises, and everyday busyness. And ultimately, those things slowly pull our attention away from God.
When Nehemiah heard that enemies had broken down the walls of Jerusalem, he didn’t just feel bad and move on. Instead, he sat down, wept, fasted, and prayed. The burden became personal. That is often where purpose begins. Not with ego, ambition, or trying to be impressive. But with letting God break our hearts for something that matters.
Nehemiah definitely knew that God had called him to build. And that clarity helped him stay focused when distraction came. In Nehemiah 6:3, when his enemies tried to pull him away from the work, he responded, “I am doing a great work, and I cannot come down.” Those words are surely a challenge for us, too.
Stay On The Wall
We need to know what wall God has put in front of us. Maybe it’s our faith, marriage, or family? Possibly our integrity, calling, or the people we’re to serve? The work will not always be easy. Nehemiah faced opposition, exhaustion, fear, and rubble. But he reminded the people, “Our God will fight for us.” Faithfulness does not mean there is no resistance. Sometimes the resistance means the work actually matters.
So the question is, “Where have you come down from the wall?” Ask yourself how you’ve drifted (maybe not dramatically, but slowly). Could it be your time with God, leadership at home, discipline, or your focus?
For us this week, let’s pray, “Lord, help me see what You have called me to build. Give me clarity to know what matters, courage to resist distraction, and endurance to keep going when it gets hard. Help me take the next faithful step and stay on the wall. Amen.”
Building with you,
Posted in A Word from the Pastor