Nehemiah in the bible is a great example of how to succeed even when under extreme pressure. Nehemiah was in charge of rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem after the Israelites returned to their homeland after many years in captivity. He did not have an easy task as he endeavoured to rebuild with a discouraged and fearful group of people. To add to the problem Jerusalem was also under threat from their enemies.
I love what Nehemiah said to his enemies when they tried to distract him from his task to rebuild the wall.
His response to their intimidation was, “I am doing a great work, and I cannot come down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and come down to you?”
In other words, “I’ve got an important assignment here, and I don’t have time for distractors like you.” (Nehemiah 6:3)
Nehemiah succeeded in his task because he made some decisions about how he was going to think and act. He determined that:
1. Fear was not an option – Nehemiah didn’t allow fear and doubt to cloud his perspective or view of the future and what God had promised. Fear would have silenced and stopped the fulfilment of both he and his countryman’s purpose. The people were under attack, had suffered failure and discouragement and didn’t know what to do. Because of this, Nehemiah knew he must stand strong. He remained upon the wall away from his distractors and determined within himself that fear and doubt were not an option.
2. Pray about everything – Nehemiah sought God’s wisdom and guidance. Whatever the situation pray –you actually cannot afford not to pray.
Nehemiah prayed, “Lord let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant…give your servant success today by granting him favour”. (Nehemiah 1:11)
The bible encourages us “to not worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace.” (Philippians 4:6-7)
Nehemiah’s decision to seek God in all he did and to have the attitude that fear was not going to be an an option paid off. It enabled him to successfully lead the people to rebuild the walls around Jerusalem in a record 52 days. (Nehemiah 6:15)
Whatever situation or challenges you are facing, know that God has a plan, and with Him, you also can overcome your challenges and be successful in what God has purposed you to do and become.
Today make the decision that FEAR IS NOT AN OPTION and that you will PRAY ABOUT EVERYTHING. Then choose everyday to stay above the “noise and distractions” as you keep moving forward with boldness and courage.
Prayer: Lord, thank you that I have a purpose and reason for being here. I choose to not listen to fear, distractions or those things or people that would cause me to lose heart. Instead, I commit to keeping my eyes on you, your Word and who you say I am today. In Jesus name Amen.
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