They continued building the wall; despite, the criticism being launched at them. They had prayed for the enemy to be removed; however, instead the enemy now determined to launch a military attack against the builders. Often, when Satan realizes that his mocking words can’t deter the Christian from doing God’s work; he launches a greater attack and God allows him to. Not because God didn’t hear our prayers, nor because we are outside His Will; however, He realizes we need to grow both in our faith and in our defense. Unless, we learn how to defend ourselves against the enemy; we cannot accomplish the task at hand to spread the gospel truth to a world in need of Him. We must act, defending the cause of Christ. So, how do we finish well when the Enemy Attacks? To do so we must arm ourselves with the sword of truth.
Remember our battle is “not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” (Ephesians 6:12). Remember that God has provided us with His armor to protect us. The only weapon He gave us is: “the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God” (Ephesians 6:17). This is a powerful sword in two ways. It is the truth of the gospel message and it is the power of Christ in us. To wield this sword or to stand firm when the enemy attacks, we must “study to show (ourselves) approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).
WHEN THE OPPOSITION ATTACKS
So, it was that the enemies opposing the wall; planned a military attack. Their plan: surround the people working on the wall and stop the builders through brute force. The people discouraged, suddenly saw the task as too great.
And Judah said, “The strength of the bearers of burdens is decayed, and there is much rubbish: so that we are not able to build the wall. And our adversaries said, ‘They shall not know, neither see, till we come in the midst among them, and slay them, and cause the work to cease’” (Nehemiah 4:10-11).
The labor for God’s Kingdom at times appears impossible. So often, we labor with no signs of reward. The rubbish before us that must be cleared appears too great and the opposition too strong. Discouragement builds within our own hearts; until, we like the people desire to cease. Weary from the work, covered with the scars of labor; we see the obstacles before us and we sit down defeated. We return to life, merely going through the motions, turn on the TV; go about work somber, afraid that someone might discover our faith. Our Bible lays on the bedside table or the bookshelf, unopened. After all, if God really wanted us to labor; wouldn’t we see the reward now?
ARMED TO FINISH WELL WHEN THE ENEMY ATTACKS
Undeterred, Nehemiah, a true leader, focused on the goal instead of the obstacles. He rallied the troops and called the weary builders to action by two means.
First, he reminded them, God is on their side and He commanded the building of the wall. He will accomplish all that He plans; regardless, of the enemy attacks. In fact, His power and glory will shine through even brighter to the world; bringing light into darkness.
So, Nehemiah said to all the people, “Be not afraid of them: remember the Lord, which is great and terrible, and fight for your brethren, your sons, and your daughters, your wives, and your houses” (Nehemiah 4:14).
Second, he commanded half of the people to stand as guards protecting the builders. Every worker armed with a sword, continued their labor. Furthermore, he set up an alarm system; whereby, the people were to all join as one unit prepared for battle if they heard the trumpet sound. “Our God shall fight for us” (Nehemiah 4:20).
With the growing enemy army against the Christian faith around the world and even in our country, don’t we hear the trumpet sounding? We must remember God is fighting for us. He has won the final victory, we must continue building. Do not get discouraged!
CONCLUDING TWEETS
[tweetthis]Do not grow weary in your battle for truth put on God’s armor and His Word[/tweetthis]
[bctt tweet=”The Word of God is powerful and alive; breaking asunder the lies of this world” username=”effiedarlene”]
[tweetthis]Never forget: “The Word Became Flesh” Jesus Christ is the gospel message[/tweetthis]
DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR?
If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. Because there is nothing more important than this, I urge you to seek Him today.
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Two Newest Books Available
ABIDING, STEADFAST JOY 
A labor of love, this book provides you with 3 foundations of truth from the scripture which once known will provide you with abiding, steadfast joy. Undaunted by the storms of life; your joy will overflow.
WHEN INJUSTICE AND VIOLENCE REIGN:
Through a study of Nahum, Habukkuk, and Zephaniah; I brought their message into our modern times. Answering the questions of “Why, God?”
Providing a foundation of faith and hope; even, as we see so much evil in the world and in our nation. With so much sorrow and despair, this book I wrote to guide you into discovering God’s Perfect Plan of love; amid this chaotic world filled with life’s storms.
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©Effie Darlene Barba, 2017
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
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