Pray and Work, the Inspiring Example of NehemiahSample

Being constantly alert to an enemy attack

“Those who carried burdens were loaded in such a way that each labored on the work with one hand and held his weapon with the other. And each of the builders had his sword strapped at his side while he built.” (Nehemiah 4:17-18)

The inhabitants of Jerusalem were threatened with death. Their enemies planned to attack them unawares. But those plans leaked out, so Nehemiah was able to arm the people in time.

The work continued, but the builders were constantly on guard. They kept their weapons on hand so they could immediately defend themselves if necessary.

Here again I see a parallel with the life of Christians. In 1 Peter 5:8 it says, “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” Through that warning, we too can arm ourselves in a timely manner. Ephesians 6 discusses this in detail. Our battle is not against people, but against spiritual powers. Therefore, we need spiritual armor with a belt of truth, a breastplate of righteousness and a helmet of salvation, carrying faith as our shield and God's Word as our sword. These weapons enable us to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.

Do you see spiritual attacks as a real danger to believers? How do you prepare for them?