Restart: Stepping Out in FaithSample

FOILING THE ENEMY’S TACTICS If you think temptation will go away simply because you resisted once, think again! Your enemies are not easily deterred and they will come after you using different forms of deception. Sanballat and the others tried four times to ambush and possibly assassinate Nehemiah, but each time he resisted their overtures. Nehemiah tells them that the task God has assigned him to do is far too important to allow distractions to interfere with its work. It was not an excuse, it was the truth. When God calls us to service we should be steadfast and single-minded in our approach to undertaking this work. The enemy is crafty and will stop at nothing to undermine the work of the kingdom. We must be on our guard against anything that would sidetrack us and cause us to wander away from the task at hand. Why do you think the near completion of the wall caused Nehemiah’s enemies to come at him once more? Young people in our community often fall victim to various temptations and addictive behaviors such as underage drinking and smoking. Seek out a civic group that is trying to make a difference in these areas. Volunteer as a mentor or counselor. Pray: Lord, guide our youth as they make decisions that can adversely affect their lives. Give them the wisdom which comes only from you.