This message resonates in my heart for this hour. Never before have we seen the likes of what our country is encountering and facing on any given day. As a watchman on the wall of intercession, I encourage all believers to gird-up, strengthen themselves in the Lord and pray. While it looks like prayer is not enough, it is powerful for the “pulling down of strongholds.” (2 Cor. 10:4) The enemy would like to discourage you from prayer, but do not listen to him! Let’s continue to pray for “God’s will to be done on earth as it is in heaven!” (Matt. 6:10). For truth and justice to be restored in our nation. For America to come into divine alignment and thus fulfill her destiny. May we as believers repent and turn away from all darkness and evil. Let’s not give the enemy any foothold in our lives.
Nehemiah is a great example of advancing through opposition. Upon hearing the wall in Jerusalem is in shambles, he receives a burden from the Lord. He fasts and prays and the Lord gives Nehemiah the assignment to rebuild the wall. It is interesting how a cupbearer receives an assignment to construct and build a wall. You and I have no excuses over qualifications. Nehemiah has favor with the king to leave his cup bearing position and go rebuild the wall. He is escorted, has safe passage and receives the timber necessary to accomplish the work.
This is an important assignment from the Lord. There is an entire chapter devoted to the “wall builders.” Nehemiah chapter 3, lists everyone’s name who participates. Nehemiah has opposition however, as his enemies try to discourage and even provoke a battle. “Those who were rebuilding the wall and those who carried burdens took their load with one hand doing the work and the other holding a weapon. As for the builders, each wore his sword girded at his side as he built, while the trumpeter stood near me.” (Neh. 4:17-18 nasb)
There are numerous accounts throughout scripture where God’s assignment is surrounded by opposition. Consider: Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt, Joshua marching God’s people into the promised land, Nehemiah rebuilding the Jerusalem wall, Noah assigned to build an arc, Joseph called to prominence in Egypt, David anointed to be king, Jesus’ mission to bring the kingdom, Paul’s commission to bring revelation to the church, and more.
Here we are in the 21st century. Christians are facing opposition on many fronts. We can strengthen ourselves in the Lord, holding fast to Him or we can cave into the peer pressure of a worldly rule. We are all called to be the salt of the earth and light of the world! Just as the Lord said to Joshua many years ago, He is still speaking to us today. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)