Undaunted.Life: A Man's DevotionalSample

PHYSICAL, Day 6: Hammers and Spears

The Old Testament story of Nehemiah and the walls of Jerusalem has served as an inspiration to men for generations. The trajectory of Nehemiah’s life and story allows for many intersection points with men in many different seasons of life.

The book of Nehemiah begins with him becoming very distressed at the news of the current state of his homeland, Jerusalem. He hears of the dilapidated city and its broken walls, and the news pushes him into a state of intense mourning, fasting, and prayer. Eventually, with the permission of King Artaxerxes to whom he serves as Cup Bearer, Nehemiah is granted permission to travel back to Judah to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.

Upon arrival, Nehemiah was able to rile up his fellow countryman and inspired them to begin working to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. However, Nehemiah and his compatriots immediately ran into opposition. Men like Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem mocked the Jews’ plans and even went so far as to accuse them of acting against the will of King Artaxerxes.

Even in the face of such opposition, Nehemiah and his men began rebuilding the wall. When they started to make real progress in this endeavor, their opposition shifted from mocking to threatening. Specifically, those working on the walls became increasingly scared of being attacked while working.

Nehemiah would have none of that.

It was clear that Nehemiah’s goal was dually focused: 1. Rebuild the wall, and 2. Protect his people. Think about it… If all of his people were solely focused on construction and not protection, then their opponents would likely be able to destroy the walls and hurt their people again without much trouble. Also, if all of his people were solely focused on protection and not construction, then they would essentially have a well-guarded pile of rubble. In order to accomplish what they set out to, they needed BOTH hammers and spears.

One takeaway for men from the story of Nehemiah is that in order to do God’s work, he may require our physical dedication. As you could easily surmise, there was likely a lot of talk in Judah during this period about what it would be like IF the walls were to be rebuilt. Many Jews probably imagined scenarios where their lives would be benefited because of the protective walls. However, hoping and wishing cannot bind stone and mortar together. It required the steady hands and strong backs of able-bodied men to do this.

The question to you is simple: If God’s calling to you required your physical output, would you be ready, willing, and able to do so?