In Biblical times, walls and gates were a city’s primary defense against enemy invasions. According to Dr. Michele Fleming, “The gates of the ancient cities [were]… massive gates made of stone, iron, brass, or wood frequently sheeted with metal. They were tall and wide. ‘The Beautiful Gate’ of Herod’s temple (Acts 3:2) was made of brass and required twenty men to close it. These gates were opened during the day to allow the citizens to come and go, but were generally closed and barred at night as a safety measure to keep out enemy attacks. Whoever controlled the gates of the stronghold ruled the city.” Scripture tells us that gates were also used in camps, homes, palaces and temples.
Depending on the location, gates sometimes took on additional significance or function. For example, the Horse Gate in Jerusalem was near the King’s stables and the place where Israeli warriors would ride their horses out in times of war. The Fountain Gate was near the pool of Siloah and used for cleaning before entering the temple.
Social Significance of Gates
In addition to their practical purposes, gates also had social and spiritual significance. Gates were seats of authority, where court was convened, proclamations made, civic decisions determined and important business transactions made. When the Bible speaks of “sitting in the gate”it is referencing a person taking part in these types of activities, typically signifying that the person “sitting in the gate” is a person of authority and influence (Genesis 19:1, Jeremiah 39:3, Proverbs 31:23)
Spiritual Significance of Gates
One of the promises that God gave to Abraham was that “your offspring shall possess the gate of his enemies” (Genesis 22:17). In Matthew 16:18, Jesus declared that the gates of Hell would never prevail against the Church. Jesus was declaring that no authority or counsel of Satan would ever overcome God’s governing council on earth – the Church (Ekklesia).
Gates are entry points (protection) and places of influence (authority). The culture – and future – of a nation is shaped by the activities that happen at the gates, and whoever controls the gates will determine what happens there. Overall, the Ekklesia in America has abandoned our responsibility to have influence over the gates of government, education, business, media, congregations and even our own homes. It’s time to take back the gates that have been hijacked, and time to rebuild the gates that have been broken beyond recognition.
What does it mean to rebuild a gate?
To rebuild a gate is to influence it to reflect the will and character of Christ. It involves an intentional strategy to establish and expand Biblical truth in areas that are currently influenced more by spiritual darkness than they are by the Kingdom of Light.
Progress by Proximity
This information should give some fresh perspective on why Nehemiah’s quest to rebuild the wall was so significant. This week our scripture reading is the entirety of Chapter 3, in which we read an account of the various gates and wall sections that were rebuilt by the citizens of Jerusalem. As I read this portion of scripture, one of the chief things that stands out to me is that the people primarily repaired the walls and gates based on proximity. Proximity to their homes. Proximity to their occupations.
As we apply the lessons of Nehemiah to today’s American culture, I encourage you to consider which broken gates need rebuilding that are in proximity to your sphere of influence?
To determine areas that you could influence (“rebuild”) to be shaped by the will and ways of God, consider proximity to your:
Physical Home
Is your neighborhood plagued by violence? Is your home near a place of significant social or civil activity? Are you near a territorial boundary or an important natural resource? Have you prayed for the salvation of your neighbors? Do you neighbors have needs you can help to address? Is your home a refuge for family, neighbors or friends of your children? All of these situations provide opportunity to build a gate that honors God in proximity to your physical home.
Occupation
Do your co-workers know Jesus? Are they hungry for prayer or discipleship? Are you in a unique position to show the love of Christ to those you serve in your line of work? Does your occupation itself need reform? Has your industry declared itself divorced from God, and what would it look like if you brought Biblical values back into that arena?
Talents, Skills and Calling
You are uniquely gifted with talents and abilities intended to be used in the service of God’s kingdom. Don’t limit your thinking to only ways that your talents can be used inside a church building! What needs exist in our culture that your talents and skills could address? How could you use your natural abilities to establish the authority of God in your community? How can your talents be used to convey to others that Jesus loves them?
Family History
Even a cursory review of scripture reveals that bloodlines and heritage are very important to God. The subject of bloodlines and their spiritual significance is far too deep for this simple post, and furthermore, not something I could even pretend to understand fully. For want of a more in-depth discussion, consider these basic principles when searching for gates in proximity to your family history:
Generational Iniquity & Generational Blessings “‘You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is on the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. You shall not bow down to them or serve them; for I the Lord your God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing steadfast love to thousands generations of those who love me and keep my commandments. (Deuteronomy 5:8-10)
The Bible mentions multiple times that God “visits” the iniquity (wickedness or gross injustice) of fathers on their children up to the third and fourth generation. Biblical truth, experience and social science all show us the reality that the vices, wounds and sins of parents can have a profound impact on children that seems to perpetuate from generation to generation. Is there iniquity or a trend of brokenness in your family line that amounts to a broken gate in your life, family or home?
If so, know that you are not without hope! Scripture provides support for the concept that we can be freed from this burden if we confess and repent of both our own iniquity and the iniquity of our fathers (Leviticus 26:39-42).
What’s more, the Bible also states multiple times that God loves to bless those who love and obey him, up to a thousand generations (Exodus 34:6-7). Has anyone in your lineage over the last thousand generations loved and obeyed God? Don’t discount His promise to show you steadfast love on account of the obedience of your forefathers!
What generational blessings are promised to you in scripture, and how can you use those blessings to rebuild gates? What generational blessings can you expect based on the lives of your parents, grandparents or ancestors?
Inheritance, Ownership & Authority If you own the family car, you have authority to tell your teenager when they can and can’t borrow it. When you own a home, you have authority to determine who may and may not enter that home. When you pass away, if you leave the family car and home to your child, s/he will now be the owner and that inheritance will confer the same authority you once possessed on to the next generation.
Just as you can confess and repent from the effect of generational iniquity, you can also inherit influence and authority from the works of your ancestors. Think of this as passing the torch…you can continue the good work that was started in your family line, or repent of the evil works they began and ensure the torch drops here. There are areas of influence tied to your family history that may give you unique spiritual authority to heal long-standing wounds or claim promises that have been long since forgotten.
Consider the story of Matt Lockett and Will Ford, close friends who later learned that one’s ancestors owned the other’s as slaves in early America. They now travel the nation together with a message of racial reconciliation.
What good works did your grandmother pour herself into that you could continue? What did your ancestors do that could inform your inheritance to act today?
It’s time to rebuild the gates
After months of spiritual, social and practical preparation, Nehemiah has finally gotten to the meat-and-potatoes of his assignment: The wall is being rebuilt! In a similar way, everything we’ve learned and done so far in the Rise & Build Campaign has led to this – it’s time to identify and rebuild the broken gates that are in proximity to your sphere of influence. God is both able and willing to show you the gate on which He’d like you to focus. He is able and willing to equip you to rebuild it with supernatural success. God chose to plant you here and now for such a time as this. I know you can sense the destiny that surrounds this season of our nation. You are part of that destiny, on purpose.
It’s time to rebuild the gates.
Prayer:
Father, show me the gates in proximity to my life and location. Please give me Your strategies for transferring the influence, authority and activities of those gates from darkness to Your marvelous light. May You be glorified in the gates of my heart, my home, my neighborhood, city, state and nation. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Build Assignment:
Make a list of gates (areas of authority, influence, or social importance) that are in proximity to your home, occupation, family history and/or talents & skills?
Ask God to reveal which gate he’d like you to focus on rebuilding. Consider re-reading Campaign 6 | What My God Put in My Heart for advice on discerning God’s assignment for you in this season. Also consider discussing this with the other members of your household.
Write down the next steps you’ll take to influence that gate.
After months of prayer, fasting and planning, Nehemiah was finally ready to reveal his intentions for rebuilding the wall to the people of Jerusalem. They hadn’t invited him. They weren’t expecting him. He held no particular position of influence or authority over them. And now he had the audacity to propose himself the leader of a movement that would require first a radical shift in perspective, and then a massive commitment of effort from a community who, again, had never asked him to get into their business in the first place.
From the outside looking in, it sure seems like Nehemiah has swerved out of his lane.
Some commentators believe that the Israelites in Jerusalem had come to accept the state of the city’s ruined wall, along with the social, security and economic problems it caused. They subconsciously perceived it as an unfixable reality.
Enter Nehemiah.
God used Nehemiah to open their eyes. Nehemiah helped them see the reality of their situation rather than just their perception of it. He helped them to see the favor and hope that God had given them. He helped them see that they must be part of the solution, and that God’s miracle would come through their own hands. Until now, Nehemiah’s quest to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls had mainly involved private preparation. Now the collaborative phase of the campaign was beginning, and Nehemiah discerned it was time to speak up.
If you can’t see the similarities already, I hope that as you read on you’ll see that America’s current situation is not much different than the situation Nehemiah faced. Many of us have simply come to accept the broken state of our culture and government, and as such we have allowed the fruit of bad seeds to grow unchecked. But just like Jerusalem in Nehemiah’s day, the truth is that America is not too far gone for God to redeem her and rebuild our land as the God-honoring nation it was meant to be from the beginning. When the Miracle Worker does this extraordinary thing, it will be through your hands.
What does it mean to speak up?
Throughout this campaign you’ll read the term “speaking up” and I’ll also reference “the problem we’re facing” or “our crisis”. It can get to sounding quite vague, so here is some clarification: Speaking up means speaking truth, confronting lies, educating others and promoting Biblical values out loud.
Speaking up does not mean arguing, convincing or blaming. It does not mean violence or intimidation, and it doesn’t mean hindering the rights of free speech for those with whom we disagree. It doesn’t mean constantly complaining about what is wrong.
Our current crisis in America is a crisis of liberty. Here is a very small sampling of situations that show how the liberty of Americans – especially conservative, Christian Americans – is in danger.
In May 2021, a Texas prayer group (Christians Engaged) was denied tax exempt status by the IRS. When the IRS explained their reason for the denial, they stated: “Specifically, you educate Christians on what the Bible says in areas where they can be instrumental, including the areas of sanctity of life, the definition of marriage, biblical justice, freedom of speech, defense, and borders and immigration, U.S. and Israel relations. The Bible’s teachings are typically affiliated with the D party and their candidates. This disqualifies you from exemption under IRS Section 501(C)(3).” The “D party” is their code name for the Republican party.
In June of 2021, it was discovered that Whitehall District Schools in Michigan sent an email to students with no parental approval or notification that provided children with a questionnaire (Erotic Response and Orientation Scale or EROS) to determine their sexual orientation. The questionnaire asks questions such as “I identify as a man, woman, or other”; “In the past two weeks, I have found myself wanting to have real-life sexual intercourse with a man” and “I have found myself sexually aroused by a woman”. The email also included a link to grant money that would assist students in obtaining gender transition surgery without help from their parents. This email was sent to all high school students and, even more disturbingly, children as young as 6th grade.
To date, the Supreme Court has on five separate occasions ruled that the restrictions on religious gatherings and practices created by California’s state government (in response to COVID-19) are unconstitutional. The most recent restriction to be shot down (April, 2021) was a ban on in-home religious gatherings where more than 3 households are represented. California Christians were concerned that the limit “does not permit an individual to gather with others in her own backyard to study the Bible, pray, or worship with members of more than two other households, all of which are common (and deeply important) practices of millions of contemporary Christians in the United States.” Californians “can sit for a haircut with 10 other people in a barbershop, eat in a half-full restaurant (with members of 20 different families), or ride with 15 other people on a city bus, but they cannot host three people from different households for a Bible study indoors or in their backyards.” In light of these continual court losses, Governor Newsom’s office decided to voluntarily change its prohibition on singing or chanting in a church service to a recommendation – 10 months after it was enacted. For 10 months, it was illegal to sing in an American church! The household gathering ban was overruled by a 5-4 vote at the highest court in the land, hardly a sweeping rebuke on restriction of religious liberty. And until that ruling, the lower courts had deemed the restriction lawful.
And finally, as I attempted to provide a representative example of media censorship of Christian and conservative messages, the list of examples was so long I struggled to choose just one.
Our government has expanded its influence and tried to usurp God’s place as the authority on matters of family life and morality. In this paradigm, Americans who want to live their life based on the teachings of the Bible are quickly losing their liberty to do so.
The Decade of Pey
I believe this moment in history is the most critical time to speak up that we will experience in our lifetime. Why? There are several reasons, but one of the chief reasons is found in the Hebrew alphabet. (Stay with me – I promise to bring this full-circle!)
The Hebrew alphabet consists of symbols which are represented by specific pictures. Each picture-letter also has a numerical value. Because of this, the Hebrew language is rich with meaning and symbolism. The year 2020 on the Greco-Roman calendar used by Americans began shortly after the Hebrew year 5780. The letter for the number 80 is Pey, which is a picture of a mouth. Scholars and theologians believe the spiritual significance of Pey is “to speak.” While 5780 was indeed a year to speak, it also began an entire decade in the number 80 – the decade to speak.
For anyone concerned about matters of truth, liberty and justice, it’s painfully obvious that America has a dire need for communication that gives truth, exposes lies and stands against injustice. In this spiritual season of Pey, God is placing strategic emphasis on the Spirit-led, spoken words of His people.
“To make an apt answer is a joy to a man, and a word in season, how good it is!” Proverbs 15:23
The Almighty God who created everything through His spoken word has made us in His image, and reminds us that the words of His children have the power to destroy and the power to build up (Proverbs 12:6). Scripture tells us that “the tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit” (Proverbs 18:21).
The Silent Church
We have been disengaged in matters of culture and government for too long. For some reason, today’s American Christians are inclined to avoid conflict at all costs. It’s a far cry from flipping over tables in the temple and calling predatory leaders a “brood of vipers,” but here we are nonetheless. Some of us would rather be silent and thought well of by the world, than to speak up and be ridiculed. But as 1 Corinthians 1:27 says in the Message translation, “Isn’t it obvious that God deliberately chose men and women that the culture overlooks and exploits and abuses, chose these ‘nobodies’ to expose the hollow pretensions of the ‘somebodies’?”
We’ve been conditioned to believe that civic involvement is equivalent to politics. Civic involvement is not only good, it is God’s idea (Romans 13:1-2; Matthew 28:18; Genesis 1:28; Colossians 1:16). Politics, however, is a game of manipulation played for control, rooted in values that are antithetical to the gospel. Our culture has shamed genuine believers out of involvement in civic service by conflating the two concepts. Subsequently, we’ve also been conditioned to believe that Christians who are “into politics” (truly, civic involvement) are immature, self-seeking or idolizing their earthly citizenship over their Kingdom allegiance. These accusations are absurd and false, carefully crafted over time to cause everyday, American Christians to believe they are disqualified from public service.
We’ve been conditioned to believe that separation of church and state is meant to keep the church out of government, when in reality it was meant to keep the government out of church. Our faith ought to inform everything we do, including influencing our schools, community organizations and governments at all levels.
America is a republic, ingeniously designed for government of, by and for the people. When the people of God exclude themselves from participation, should there be any wonder as to why the voice of biblical truth is largely absent? We have been silent for too long, and now we begin to see the horrible fruit of abdicating our responsibility.
The Enemy Knows the Season
Make no mistake – the enemy is aware of the spiritual significance of the decade of Pey. Knowing this, are you surprised that media control, censorship and isolation are such vital parts of the strategy of those who are anti-christ? (To be clear – people are not our enemy; they are victims of our enemy. As Ephesians 6:12 says, “…we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.”)
Those who push ungodly agendas have a lot of practice speaking – loudly, abrasively and constantly. They use shame, slander and fear in an effort to keep you quiet. But your authority in Christ is endlessly stronger than their propaganda finesse. “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31)
If you are concerned about what others will think of you, say to you and do to you if you start speaking up, read this.
When to Speak Up
If you’re inspired to start speaking up, but feeling nervous about knowing when you should, try starting with this simple commitment.
I promise to speak up:
1. When someone asks me 2. When Holy Spirit prompts me
Just as Peter encouraged us in his first epistle, in our hearts, we must “set apart Christ as Lord” and “always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15). You should prepare and practice now for what you might say then.
How to Speak Up
It’s one thing to commit to speaking up; it’s another thing to actually do it! What do we say? There’s no formula, but we can certainly look to scripture for guidance. Let’s take a look at Nehemiah’s approach.
Give Information
Then I said to them, “You see the trouble we are in…” Israel didn’t see the true nature of their problems because they had settled for the idea that the walls would never be rebuilt. They didn’t even regard it as an option. That sounds familiar… We tend to view Washington D.C. and Hollywood in a similar way. Admit it – you probably think there’s a greater chance that California will fall into the ocean than that Hollywood could end up truly being in the City of Angels. How often have you heard reports of corruption in Washington met with comments like “He’s a politician; if his lips are moving, he’s lying”? We fully accept a certain level of depravity and corruption from celebrities and elected officials and have long since written it off as par for the course.
When depravity and corruption get closer to home – to our state, our community, our school, our neighborhood – some of us respond by burying our heads in the sand. We choose ignorance and rationalize that it will all (somehow) work out. (In spiritual circles this sounds like, “Well, God is still on the throne.”) These brothers and sisters have counted the cost of speaking up, but failed to consider the cost of remaining ignorant and uninvolved.
Why would we do this? Americans love comfort. We are often afraid to learn about the nefarious actions of our government, or examine the immoral influence of culture on our family, because those realities will certainly lead to discomfort, if not anxiety, fear and anger. Consider also the way that truth-tellers are shamed in media and you have all the ingredients necessary to keep people from being willing to acknowledge the trouble we are in.
Those with their heads in the sand need to receive what Nehemiah gave to the people of Jerusalem – a fresh assessment of reality.
I am not encouraging you to debate or argue. I am encouraging you to be led by Holy Spirit to – with gentleness and wisdom – provide information your co-workers, neighbors, friends and loved ones need in order to really see the situation for what it is. It’s not your job to convince them, but to inform them. You can’t make them drive the car, but you should give them the keys.
Don’t Point Fingers
“…the trouble we are in…” Nehemiah took ownership of the problems Jerusalem faced, even though he was least to blame of all those present. He didn’t waste time by pointing fingers. We can invest our time arguing about exactly who is at fault, or we can come together and focus on finding a solution. When it comes to speaking up, dwell less on who is to blame and more on who you can encourage to do something about it. While I recognize that there are many divisive, counter-intuitive movements coming from the left, there are many Republicans whose message is conservative but whose conduct is little different than the Democrats they demonize. This is not a political party issue – this is a We the People issue. Let go of parties and latch on to principles.
Encourage Next Steps
“Come, let us build…” I believe that one of the primary reasons why some American Christians are disengaged from social issues and government affairs is because they just don’t know what to do next. It’s overwhelming to know there is a crisis and then feel as if there’s nothing you can do but sit by and watch it happen. We are uneducated about our rights and options. We feel alone or fear backlash for pushing back against doctrines of demons and unconstitutional activities. It’s natural to want to avoid a situation where your heart is vexed and you feel there’s nothing you can do about it.
Help fellow Christians get over the hurdle of feeling helpless by showing them what they can do. Tell them about petition drives, town hall meetings, activism training, support groups (off and online), protests and rallies. Remind them of the simple but powerful things that anyone can do: Invite our loving, all-powerful God to intervene on our behalf (otherwise called prayer), attend government meetings (school board, city council, etc.), volunteer as an election official, seek education on law and history, study scripture, practice thanksgiving and treat your neighbors lovingly. This is exactly what the Rise & Build Campaign is all about! These simple next steps, called Build Assignments, will make a big difference over time, and anyone can do them.
Your next steps as you speak up will likely be connected to the assignment God has for you in this critical season of transition in America.
Focus on the Ultimate Goal
“…that we may no longer suffer derision.” It was never about just a wall. The Hebrew word derision here means “resting upon condition of shame, disgrace” or “reproach.” Nehemiah wanted to provide the safety and prosperity to his people that would come with rebuilding the wall, but his ultimate goal was to remove the reproach associated with God via the condition of His people. It was never just about a wall for Nehemiah, and it’s not about politics for us. It is about ensuring liberty for all Americans, and consequently retaining liberty for Christians to live by Biblical principles.
Glorify God
“And I told them of the hand of my God that had been upon me for good, and also of the words that the king had spoken to me.” I’m always encouraged by memes and articles that rehash biblical accounts of the ways God has shown Himself mighty and loving to mankind. I’m equally encouraged when I intentionally list all the ways that God has rescued me, shown me favor, answered my prayers and shown his loving-kindness to me. Faith comes by hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17), which I believe is at least part of why scripture encourages us to recount the stories of God’s impact in the earth, to ourselves and our children (Deuteronomy 11:19).
What has God done for you? What prayers has He answered? What has He said to you in prayer regarding the state of our nation? What has He promised – today and yesterday and yesteryear? Can He do it? Will He do it? Has He already done some of it? Can He do it again, or is He all done making a way where there seems to be no way?
It’s time to speak up about the power and goodness and faithfulness of God – in history, in your history, and as it unfolds today. Believers and nonbelievers alike will be encouraged by this testimony, especially as they see the convictions you’ve shared coming to pass.
The truth is, you need not be afraid. Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go (Joshua 1:9). He will give you the words to speak (Matthew 10:19). You can be certain that God’s word always accomplishes what it was sent to do (Isaiah 55:11). Don’t be bashful about seeking education in areas where you feel uninformed. You are not alone – the silent majority are finding their voices and they will stand with you.
Our God specializes in taking those without reputation, without formal education, without wealth, without the approval of the world, yet without fear – and transforming the world through our simple obedience (1 Corinthians 1:26-29). And when He does miracles, He often does them through hands like yours and mine.
It’s time to use your voice to ensure that no American is defrauded of their God-given rights to life and liberty, and consequently that the household of faith retains liberty to live by Biblical principles.
It’s time to strengthen ourselves for the work ahead.
“The God of heaven will make us prosper, and we his servants will arise and build.”
Prayer:
God, thank You for freedom and free will. It’s a scary time to speak up, and sometimes I’m afraid. I come before you now and exchange my fear for faith. Holy Spirit, when you prompt me to share truth, refute lies and testify to Your goodness, I will obey. You are my Shepherd and I know Your voice – train my heart to hear it more clearly. Please give me opportunities to speak up for truth, and grace to do it with supernatural effectiveness. If others respond with offense and hate, help me to still unashamedly speak truth with gentleness and respect. Lead me to resources that will help me be educated and informed. Help me connect with others who will link arms with me in this process. Wherever You are, Holy Spirit, there is liberty! God, may I experience Your presence in my heart, in my home, in my neighborhood and everywhere I go. In Jesus’ name; Amen.
Build Assignments:
Join a support group that informs and organizes those who want to defend liberty. If you need help finding a group, join the Rise & Build Campaign Facebook group to ask others for suggestions.
Set aside some quiet time and grab a few pieces of paper. On that paper, write out your answers to the following:
Make a list of prayers God has answered throughout your life (as many as you can remember).
List at least 10 times in scripture where God made a way where there seemed to be no way.
What promises has God given you?
What has God spoken to you in prayer regarding the state of our nation?
What do you believe are God’s plans for America?
Now, read the list out loud. Seriously. If you feel self-conscious, park in the garage and sit in your car. No one will even know what you’re doing, but I promise you will be encouraged when you pey – speak – the testimony of what God has done and is going to do.
It’s Spring time in America. The older I get, the faster the seasons seem to come and go. The transition of natural seasons makes me think of spiritual seasons. They are similar to natural seasons, lasting for a relatively long period of time (months or years) but just like natural seasons, they eventually transition into something altogether different.
The current spiritual season in America is significant. November of 2020 was the 400th anniversary of the signing of the Mayflower Compact – the first non-native form of self-government in the territory that is now the United States and a document which was a predecessor to the Declaration of Independence. Many of the signers of the Compact were Puritans fleeing religious persecution in England, including my 13th great-grandfather, Thomas Rogers.
Why is this significant? Because 400 years is a significant time period in the Bible. It often signifies the fullness of time for a promise or for judgement. God brought Abraham’s offspring into the promised land 400 years after promising to give him a son. Simultaneously, the iniquity of the Amorites reached its fullness in those 400 years and they were judged when the Israelites dispossessed them. The Judges of Israel ruled for roughly 400 years. The Divided Kingdom of Israel lasted 400 years. The ministry of the prophets was approximately 400 years and there is a period of silence in scripture between Malachi and the birth of Jesus that lasts – you guessed it – 400 years. The number 400 is described as a number of completion or of transition.
Those who are abiding in God understand, even without this numerical explanation, that America is in a spiritual season of transition.
In this week’s scripture reading, we read about Nehemiah beginning to undertake “what my God had put into my heart to do” and it begs the question: What is your God assignment for this special season?
As Christians, our primary purpose in life is to love the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, and then to love our neighbor as we love ourselves. (Mark 12:30-31). Under the umbrella of that calling are spiritual assignments that God has given to each of us, which cumulatively build the Kingdom of God on earth. (1 Corinthians 3:5, Ephesians 2:10, 1 Peter 4:10, Hebrews 12:1; Galatians 6:9-10)
God Assignments
In some cases, those assignments span several seasons and sometimes they are for just one. In some cases, those assignments are perceived by us to be especially noteworthy. For example, Moses’ assignment to lead the children of Israel out of Egyptian captivity; Esther’s assignment to thwart an evil plan against the Jews; Paul’s assignment to bring the gospel to the Gentiles; Jesus’ assignment to redeem humanity. Without question, those assignments were weighty, world-changing feats that still impact our lives thousands of years later. However, it’s important that we don’t lose sight of the fact that those ‘big’ assignments would not have been possible without a symphony of other believers – known and unknown- faithfully completing ‘small’ assignments.
What would have happened to the Jewish people if Moses’ mother had not hidden him by faith (Hebrews 11:23)? How might Esther’s brave stand for the Lord taken a deadly turn if the other Jews had not supported her with prayer and fasting (Esther 4:15-17)? What would have become of Saul of Tarsus if Ananias had not been obedient to pray for the future Apostle’s healing (Acts 9:1-18)? How might Jesus’ assignment have been impacted if Joseph had obeyed the norms of his culture in fear instead of the dreams of God by faith (Matthew 1:24, 2:14)?
How many small assignments were completed by others who played a supporting role in the epic works of God that we know nothing about? God knows. He knows their obedience. He knows your obedience, which can’t be qualified as big or small. He is the ultimate strategist, working out all things for our good (Romans 8:28) and weaving together even things that darkness meant for evil (Genesis 50:20) to ultimately establish his Kingdom in the hearts of humans.
Simple Good Works Have Significant Impact
Take a moment to think of a pivotal moment in your life when someone did something simple that made a lasting impact on you. Here’s one I think of often: As a teenager I walked through a season where my family did not share my passion for Jesus, and I had come to the conclusion that I would have to choose between my family and my faith. Whether it was real or perceived, I felt misunderstood and isolated at home. One night, as a senior in high school, I attended a revival service with some college-age students from a nearby town. At the end of the service, I went down to the front of the sanctuary to receive prayer. To this day I don’t recall why I wanted prayer, but here’s what I do remember: The hug I received. When I arrived at the altar, the woman I met simply hugged me and said nothing, for a very long time. She did eventually pray for me, but I don’t remember a word she prayed, nor can I recall anything about her appearance. However, the timely, nurturing hug she gave me settled something in my soul and still brings me to tears 22 years later.
She didn’t raise the dead, heal cancer, preach in the service we attended or even pray the world’s most perfect prayer – but she did change my life with a silent, spirit-led hug. What’s more, she has no idea the lasting impact of her simple act of godly kindness.
Never, ever underestimate the powerful purpose God has in mind for your obedient completion of the so-called ‘small’ assignments He sends your way.
In this season, God may not be calling you to deliver a nation, thwart a conspiracy or lead a ministry. But know this – whatever assignment He has for you during this season, it is absolutely critical. Whether you are Paul or Ananias or one of the unnamed faithful fasting and praying for the nation-sized work of God, your good works are essential to the Kingdom. You are a co-laborer in the work and a shareholder in the ultimate result. Even if you only lay one brick, you share equally in the joy, peace and blessings awaiting the brothers and sisters working together in this season to rebuild the walls of righteousness in our land.
How do I find out what God has assigned to me?
So, how do you discover your assignment? Friend, we could discuss that question for hours! I can’t provide an exhaustive checklist for exactly every step of God’s plan for your life. Instead, I’m hoping to give you some practical starting points for discovering what good works God has called you to complete in this season.
Ask
If you want to know God’s plans for you, the best place to start is by simply asking Him. One of my favorite prayers to pray over others is that God would speak direction to them in a way that is so personal, they can be certain it’s Him speaking.
Another of my favorite prayers is this: God, please give me something to do today that can only be explained by Your grace. Posturing your heart to do whatever He sends your way – and to give Him glory for it – is an excellent way to be open to the good works He has pre-planned for you.
Listen
When you ask God for His input, expect that He will answer (Hebrews 11:6). God speaks to His children in different ways, but all of His children are capable of hearing from Him (John 10:27). He speaks to me mostly through impressions, a still small voice, in visions and through scripture. He speaks to some through dreams, some are led by supernatural peace and still others through an audible voice. How does God speak to you? I’ve learned to hear His voice more clearly through practice over time, and that involved a process of trial and error. As you learn to hear His voice, you won’t always get it right, but you will learn from the missteps. Don’t let fear stop you from practicing hearing His voice – His grace is sufficient for you!
Go
When Jesus sent out the twelve disciples before His death, and when He pronounced the Great Commission to them after His resurrection, He first gave them Heaven’s authority and then he gave this instruction: Go (Matthew 10:1-8, Matthew 28:16-20).
You’ve asked God for His assignment. You’re humbly listening for His answer. Now, take a step of faith and just go. Scripture says that God is already “at work in you to will and act according to His good purpose” (1 Corinthians 3:9). You already have God’s blessing to use the natural abilities and spiritual gifts He’s given you to serve others with the grace of Christ (1 Peter 4:10). Yes, our motives and methods must be submitted to scripture, and in some cases screened through godly counsel, but you, dear one, temple of the Holy Spirit who raised Christ from the dead, have already been given authority and power to do the works of God.
Go! Do the good work that your God has put into your heart to do.
Prayer:
God, I love you, and I’m grateful for the privilege to be part of demonstrating your love and power to the world around me. Thank you that America is in a season of promise and transition. Please show me what Kingdom work you’d like me to do during this season. Please give me something to do that can only be explained by Your grace, and give me the grace I need to obey. Help me learn to hear Your voice more clearly, and give me courage and wisdom to do and be what you’ve put into my heart.
Build Assignments:
Discover one way that you can become involved in local elections, and commit to doing it.
Ask God to give you something to do this week that can only be explained by His grace.
Last week we read about how God opened the door for Nehemiah to discuss his distress over Jerusalem with the king, and how months of prayer, repentance, fasting and a moment of fearless honesty lead to the king approving Nehemiah’s quest to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls. Nehemiah took his request a step further, asking for both protection and provision. He received both, because the favor of God was upon him. As we aim to rebuild righteous culture and government in America, we’ll need God’s favor, protection and provision as well.
The Favor of God
In verse eight, Nehemiah mentions that the king granted his requests because “the good hand of God” was upon him. This expression refers to the merciful favor of God.
What exactly is the favor of God, and how did Nehemiah get it?
Favor can be defined as “demonstrated delight” that brings goodwill, preference, approval or support. Please note that favor doesn’t mean favoritism. God does not show partiality, but He does show favor. God’s favor is not His love, which He gives equally to all, nor is it His grace, which is given and never earned. Favor is not synonymous with blessing, though it can lead to blessing, even through hardship. So what causes God to give favor to some and not others?
In short, there are some character traits and personal choices that especially please God, and they engender his favor. While I don’t pretend to fully understand God’s favor, scripture does give us some straight-forward examples and advice for obtaining it.
God shows favor to those who love him faithfully (Proverbs 3:1-4, Genesis 6:7-9), who hate what He hates (Revelation 2:6), who are righteous (Psalm 5:12; Genesis 4:4), who are honest (Proverbs 11:1) who live with integrity (Proverbs 3:3-4) and who seek wisdom (Proverbs 8:35).
Many of the heroes of our faith were chosen for special assignments within the Kingdom because they first found favor with God, including Noah, King David, Mary and Nehemiah.
God the Protector
In Bible times, the need for protection from invaders and robbers was a very real day-to-day concern. The writers and early readers of the Bible would have been intimately familiar with things like fortresses, strongholds, hiding places and shields. The modern American church generally doesn’t have a working knowledge or daily need for such things, so when these safeguards are used to depict the Lord, it’s more challenging for us to understand how profound it is that God Himself is our protector.
He is our refuge (Psalm 46:1-3), our fortress (Psalm 144:1-2), our strong tower (Psalm 61:2-3), our stronghold (2 Samuel 22:2), our Rock (Genesis 49:24), our shade (Psalm 121:5), our hiding place (Psalm 32:7), our keeper (Psalm 121), our strength (Psalm 28:7-8) and our shield (Genesis 15:1).
While God promises to protect us, He doesn’t promise that our lives will be free of difficulty. To the contrary, Jesus said “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). Some of that tribulation comes simply from the fact that we live in a fallen world full of the consequences of sin – ours and others’. Scripture also says that persecution will come to those who follow Jesus (2 Timothy 3:12).
God is concerned about our eternal soul. He promises us spiritual protection, and sometimes He provides physical protection. Ultimately, He knows when our bodies and property must be protected to preserve our soul, or when suffering will eventually lead to our purification and the building of our faith (Romans 8:28, James 1:2-3). I do not mean to say that God causes suffering, but rather that He knows how best to maneuver it for the sake of His children and His kingdom. Always ask God for protection! Invoking the promises and examples of protection in scripture to petition God demonstrates our trust in Him. Whether you escape or endure physical calamity, rejoice, because God is able to cause all these things to work for your ultimate good (Romans 5:3-5)!
There are two portions of scripture that are especially rich with information about the protection of God – Psalm 91 and Ephesians 6:10-18. These provide a great starting point for your deeper study on how to ask God for His protection.
How do I Invite God’s protection?
Love Him “Because heloves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him;” Psalm 91:14
Acknowledge His Name “I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.” Psalm 91:14 “I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Psalm 91:2
Abide in Him “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” Psalm 91:1
Trust Him “I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Psalm 91:2
Call on Him “He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him.” Psalm 91:15
Put on the Armor of God Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. Ephesians 6:10-18
God the Provider
One of the great wonders of God is that He chooses to do God-sized work through human-sized vessels. I in no way want to dismiss the truth that God is praised and the Kingdom is built when we honor Him in the common moments of our lives. However, there’s no denying that God is glorified in the earth when His response to our faith results in miracles that exceed our human abilities. A pastor once challenged me to daily pray for God to give me something to do that can only be explained by God’s grace. When God calls us to do, say and believe things that are beyond our ability or personal resources, we must trust that He will provide for the work He’s called us to complete.
“For His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.” 2 Peter 1:3
Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. Hebrews 13:20-21
The Bible is full of examples of common humans whom God called to do uncommon things beyond their ability. They trusted Him to provide, and the results still inspire us today. Consider:
The Ram in the Thicket When God told Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac, he obeyed, telling his son “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering.” Sure enough, when God saw that Abraham was willing to obediently sacrifice his beloved son, God responded by providing a ram in a nearby thicket to sacrifice instead. Through this story God is revealed to us as Jehovah-Jireh – the God who provides. (Genesis 22:1-14)
Gideon’s Army Despite intimidation and fear, Gideon answered God’s call to defend Israel against a well-trained, well-equipped army that outnumbered him by far. With faith and just 300 men, Gideon successfully routed the Midianite army when God supernaturally led him to a strategy that intimidated the enemy into giving up. (Judges 7)
The Faith of a Starving Mother During the drought of Elijah’s time, God sent the prophet to a widow of Zarephath to provide him with food. When he met her and asked for food, she told him that she was going to use the last of their flour and oil to make a final meal for her and her son before they died of hunger. Elijah urged her to serve him first, promising that the Lord would not allow the oil or the flour to be used up. By faith, she obliged Elijah, and the Lord continued to supernaturally provide oil and flour to her family through the rest of the drought. (1 Kings 17:12–17)
David & Goliath When the entirety of Israel’s army was afraid to fight Goliath the giant, a young man with love for and courage of God defeated the enemy with a slingshot and the enemy’s own sword. David knew he would be victorious despite not having the armor, weapons or training of an accomplished soldier, because he knew that God was with him. (1 Samuel 17)
Feeding of the Five-Thousand When Jesus tasked the Disciples to feed 5,000 men (plus women and children) they certainly felt their resources were not enough! And yet, Jesus was able to use what they had – five loaves of bread and two fish – to miraculously multiply it in service of the Kingdom. (Matthew 14:15–21)
Uneducated, Untrained Men with the Words of God The disciples were “uneducated and untrained men” (Acts 4:13) whose wisdom and teaching baffled the Jews of their day. Jesus told his disciples, “On my account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles.But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.” (Matthew 10:18-20)
This supernatural provision for the work of God’s kingdom is not relegated to a handful of men and women in the past. God is still in the business of calling ordinary people to extraordinary work, and He is still willing and able to supernaturally provide for those who trust Him to do what can only be explained by His grace.
“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” (Ephesians 3:20-21)
Prayer:
God, please have mercy on me and show me favor. I pray that the ways I think, speak and act would cause You to delight in me. Through the power of Your Spirit, help me to love You faithfully and to live with righteous integrity. Please give me Your wisdom. Please give me Kingdom work to do that can only be explained by your grace. I ask for your grace – your power to do what truth demands, and I trust that you will provide all that I need to establish your Kingdom in my heart, home and nation. As I build the Kingdom of light in territory that the darkness has claimed, protect me, my family, my home and my income. Please provide all that I need today. I trust that you will provide all that I need tomorrow. My hope is in You.
Build Assignment:
Pray for protection and provision.
Contact your School Board. If you don’t have any questions or commentary on current issues, simply thank them for their service or remind them that you are praying for them.
If you skipped today’s scripture and jumped right into the Call to Rise, you’ll want to rethink that plan. Today’s scripture is full of context that is relevant to understanding Nehemiah’s journey and to being equipped for our own.
What’s going on here?
In the Month of Nisan
From the time that Nehemiah first learned of Jerusalem’s distress till the time described in today’s scripture reading, four months had passed. During that time Nehemiah had been mourning, fasting and praying before the God of Heaven. To our merely human nature, that might seem like a giant waste of time. On the contrary, when we filter our view through the wisdom of God, we can acknowledge that Nehemiah’s actions during those four months laid the spiritual foundation upon which the physical wall of Jerusalem would be built.
The Queen Sitting Beside Him
This portion of scripture also notes that the queen was present for the occasion. Since Persian queens and concubines did not attend public banquets, we know this must have been a private meal. According to some commentators, the queen may have given additional favor to Nehemiah’s request.
Now I Had Not Been Sad in His Presence
Scripture tells us that on this day in the month of Nisan, Nehemiah was sad in the presence of King Artaxerxes for the first time. This is significant because in the Persian culture, it was considered ungrateful to show signs of sorrow in the presence of the king. Nehemiah was a professional who would not have wanted to offend his lord; on principle, and for his own safety. It’s likely that his unveiled sadness was not a ploy to get the king’s attention but rather an indication that his grief was so pervasive he could not conceal it despite his best efforts. Nehemiah’s concern for Jerusalem was so intense and authentic that it was written all over his face.
Knowing this, you can understand why Nehemiah was “very much afraid” when the king inquired about the sadness he was displaying. In addition to the offense of displaying sadness in the king’s presence, an honest answer to the question held further potential to be offensive to the king. Jerusalem’s state was ultimately Artaxerxes’ responsibility, and the idea of rebuilding the wall of a conquered city state could be seen as an affront to the king’s sovereignty. This combination could make the consequence of Nehemiah’s response improper at best, but deadly at worst.
And the King Said to Me
In the midst of his legitimate fear, Nehemiah, a man of integrity, remained honest and he relied on the Lord. This was a counter-cultural move; conventional wisdom would never have advised him to give an honest answer! And yet, look what the Lord did with Nehemiah’s courageous, honest reply!
Instead of shrinking back when he encountered danger, Nehemiah courageously asked for something so massive it was almost absurd. He clearly had spent the last four months engaged with the God who loves to do exceedingly, abundantly more than we could ever ask, think or imagine! (Ephesians 3:20) Nehemiah found favor with the king, and his extravagant request was granted.
Just as He was then, God is in the business of making a way for the work of the Kingdom to advance, even when it requires extravagant favor.
What Do We Do Now?
There are so many great things we can apply from Nehemiah’s experience to our present day.
Be True
America is starved for truth, authenticity and real wisdom.
Starved.
According to a survey conducted by Social Media Today, “86% of people say authenticity is important when deciding what brands they like and support.”
Check out this sad but accurate commentary from Forbes Magazine:
“Authenticity is now important because it is part of the ultimate search in life, the search for meaning and belonging. What’s new here is that the traditional sources of meaning in our culture, close and extended families and established religions, have lost their pull on younger consumers. As a result, consumers are searching for meaning in places that historically had no meaning, including consumer products.”
Did you catch that? Authenticity is at the forefront of marketing right now, because, after having lost their interest in “close and extended families and established religions,” Americans are desperate to find meaning in life, even to the point of searching for it on Amazon.
Even in a dangerous sociopolitical situation, Nehemiah was authentic and true in the way he responded to the king. Likewise, God is calling you to be authentic and true in social situations that might feel contentious at the onset.
What in the world does it mean to be “authentic” anyway? Authentic people have consistent character. Who they are and how they behave is based on their values, not their circumstances.
Authentic people can consistently behave based on their values because they know exactly what they value. They are grounded in a stable identity, and in the case of a Believer, that identity is rooted in who God says they are. And in an era where gender, sexuality and truth are considered fluid, a person with a stable identity is appealing and refreshing.
Because authentic people have an assurance of who they are, they can be transparent about what they do and think. When questioned, they point to their identity and values as an explanation. When they miss the mark, they are comfortable being honest about it because they know that difficulties and mistakes are a thing they are going through, not a thing that defines their identity. Those who are vulnerable and victorious are attractive to those who are struggling with life. People want to know that they can overcome their struggles, that there is hope on the other side. A person with Biblical authenticity provides that beacon of hope because they don’t work to conceal their difficulties, but instead, they walk through them with peace and hope to eventual victory.
So, be authentic. When your neighbor asks about the hope you have, be prepared to give a transparent answer (1 Peter 3:15). When your co-worker expresses a need or asks for advice, share the word of God with them without shame. When your customer needs hope, pray for them, right then and there. Live authentically and people will be drawn to you because you have what they want: purpose. Who knows; this kind of draw may have impacted Artaxerxes’ decision to grant Nehemiah’s request!
You will likely find yourself in a social situation where your Kingdom work requires you to be authentic about God’s ways in a setting where talking about God, scripture or faith is frowned upon or forbidden. Has this happened before? Have you ever given a watered-down explanation that intentionally didn’t include Jesus or scripture because you were afraid an authentic expression of your faith would be too awkward or offensive?
Me too.
Thank goodness Nehemiah didn’t bow to social norms and fear, but instead remained authentic and gave Artaxerxes a true answer. God can empower us to do the same.
Be Brave
The most frequently given command in the Bible is “do not be afraid” or some variation of it. God knows that it’s hard for us humans to be fearless.
If you can’t be fearless, be faithful in the face of fear.
Did you ever notice that oftentimes when God commands us to not be afraid, He immediately reminds us that He is with, for and working through us?
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. [Joshua 1:9]
That night the Lord appeared to him and said, “I am the God of your father Abraham. Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I will bless you and will increase the number of your descendants for the sake of my servant Abraham.” [Genesis 26:24]
When you go to war against your enemies and see horses and chariots and an army greater than yours, do not be afraid of them, because the Lord your God, who brought you up out of Egypt, will be with you. [Deuteronomy 20:1]
But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” [Matthew 14:27]
So we say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? [Hebrews 13:6]
How fitting that relationship with God is the Lord’s antidote to fear because “perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:18).
Nehemiah himself illustrates this: He was rightfully afraid for his life and career when Artaxerxes confronted him about being sad in the king’s presence, even more so when the king pressed him to make a request. His response was to call out to God for help. In the midst of his fear, He deliberately chose to rely on the fearless One.
If you struggle with fear while being true to the God of Heaven – fear of ridicule, lost relationships, career penalties, being ostracized, or even harm or death – you are not alone. Sarah, Moses, Gideon, Daniel, Elijah, the Apostle John, Mary, Nehemiah and many others faced the same. Thank God that these courageous men and women remained faithful in the face of fear. Look at what God did when they remained true and brave!
What might God do in our nation when you are brave and true?
Prayer:
Father God, help me to be authentic and courageous. May my values be anchored to Your truth and my identity rooted in who You say I am. When I am afraid, surround and fill me with Your perfect love. I will not be afraid, nor discouraged, because You are with me wherever I go. If You are for me, who can be against me? I trust You. Help me to be bold and to fearlessly proclaim Your gospel of hope to those around me who are desperate for Your love, peace and life-changing power. In Jesus name. Amen.
Build Assignments:
Create a list of culture and Kingdom leaders who are taking a public stand for truth.
Ask God to show you one way to support one of those leaders – then do it!
Nehemiah was Cupbearer to the King. As a mother, when I hear the word “cupbearer,” I’m inclined to think of moments when my fussy toddlers could be comforted by nothing except their sippy cups, and the parent who could produce the prize first would be the hero of the day. Nehemiah’s role was quite different.
In the ancient world a Cupbearer was an officer of high rank within the king’s court. As the Jewish Virtual Library explains, “since he was close to the person of the king, who feared intrigue and the possibility of poisoned food, the Cupbearer was required to be a man of irreproachable loyalty capable of winning the king’s complete confidence.” In addition to certifying the safety of Artaxerxes’ wine, John Westervelt clarifies that “Nehemiah was a confidant and counselor to the king.” Nehemiah was a man of integrity, and thus, influence. If we hope to influence our nation for Jesus, we would do well to demonstrate a similar level of integrity.
What is integrity?
A person has integrity when their actions match the values they hold and profess.
God demonstrates perfect integrity. He doesn’t lie (Titus 1:2). He does what He says He’ll do (Numbers 23:19). He keeps His promises (Hebrews 10:23). He doesn’t change his character (Hebrews 13:8) or virtues (2 Timothy 2:13). He is both perfectly righteous and absolutely just (Deuteronomy 32:4).
What does the Bible say about integrity?
Since integrity is part of the character of God, the Bible has a lot to say about it. Here’s a snapshot of the benefits and effects of Biblical integrity.
Regarding Slander
What is Slander?
Few things are more painful and debilitating for a person of integrity than slander. According to the American Heritage Dictionary, slander is “a false and malicious statement or report about someone.” As we move further into our study, we’ll learn that this exact weapon was used by the enemy against Nehemiah. Whenever God’s people begin to advance the Kingdom of light into the territory of darkness, the enemy feels threatened (as he should). One of the first weapons he will use against the righteous is slander, because if he can undermine our integrity (trust), he can undermine our influence (relationships). He is the father of lies, and so slander is his native tongue (John 8:44).
In fact, the Greek word translated as “slanderers” in Titus 2:3 is diabolos; the same word that diabolical is derived from in English. Author Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth explains that “this word—diabolos—appears 38 times in the New Testament. And in all but four of those occurrences, it’s used to refer to Satan… This connection between slander and Satan shouldn’t surprise us. The first time we meet him in Scripture, he is slandering God’s nature and character to Eve in the garden of Eden. ‘You will not surely die’ for eating fruit from the forbidden tree, he told her (Genesis 3:4).”
How Does Satan Use Slander?
Satan slanders God to humans. He sows doubt as to whether God can be trusted. He accuses the Lord and twists His words. Have you ever heard the darkness whisper something ilke “If God is real, why hasn’t He done anything about it?”
Satan also slanders humans to God. DeMoss Wolgemuth says “he famously did it in the early chapters of Job, declaring that righteous man’s behavior to be the easy response of an easy life. ‘Stretch out your hand and touch all that he has,’ Satan said to God, ‘and [Job] will curse you to your face’ (Job 1:11).”
And finally, he entices humans – even Christians – to slander each other.
How Should We Respond to Slander?
Thankfully, God has not left us defenseless when it comes to slander. The Bible gives us guidance on what to do when the accuser is on the prowl.
1| Trust God to Defend Your Honor. However you respond, make sure you are responding out of the fear of the Lord and not fear of people. Instead of panicking, we can trust the Lord to defend us. Pastor Gavin Ortlund says “After all, it’s in the context of being ‘maligned’ that Jesus says, ‘Have no fear of them, for nothing is covered that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known’ (Matt. 10:26).”
2| Pray for truth to be exposed and exalted. Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out. (Proverbs 10:9 ESV)
3| Speak Truth. You don’t need to argue or plead your case. You are empowered to declare truth, which is an absolute defense against lies. The truth is mighty and powerful, while lies are simply biding their time before they crumble. Speak truth in gentleness and not in bitterness. This is precisely what Nehemiah did when confronted with slander, and it is what Paul recommends in 2 Timothy 2:23-26:
Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.
This gentle rebuttal is best done in person whenever possible.
4| Continue in Integrity. It all comes back to consistency between what you practice and what you profess. Your godly integrity is a testimony before Heaven and earth, a defense purchased steadily over time by faithfully investing in righteous words and actions. God honors that investment, and has vowed to protect it.
Rejoice And Be Glad
Biblical integrity invites the blessing, favor and protection of God. As you commit to establishing the Kingdom of God in your sphere of influence, don’t be surprised if you find yourself on the receiving end of slander. Even more importantly, don’t forget that the One who never breaks a promise has promised to deliver you.
Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Matthew 5:11–12 (ESV)
Prayer:
Father, you know my intentions and actions. Please empower me to be a person of integrity. I lift my values and priorities up to you and ask that You convict me of any that are not consistent with Your holy scriptures and character. Teach me Your ways. Please make my heart fertile soil for the seeds of Your word, so that all I learn about and from you will take root and result in a harvest of righteous thoughts and actions. Thank you that when I walk in integrity I will be delivered. Because of my integrity you uphold me and set me in your presence forever. God, I ask that your American Church would be filled with people marked by Biblical integrity.
Build Assignments:
Fast, pray and repent.
Contact all of your County leaders (often called County Commissioners).
Today’s scripture reading starts with a straight-forward, simple concept: Nehemiah chose to be informed. He didn’t stumble upon news of Jerusalem’s plight by happenstance. Furthermore, once he learned of the distress in the city of his fathers, he chose to receive it with an open, empathetic heart. He could have easily acknowledged the travesty of the situation on an intellectual level and then moved on. After all, he was far away and the plight of Jerusalem was not a burden on him personally. Instead, he softened his heart and allowed the compassion and concern of the Father to take root in his soul. He deliberately chose to identify with the distress and derision of his people.
In his commentary on Nehemiah, English preacher and author Alexander MacLaren says it this way: “Nehemiah might have made a great many very good excuses for treating lightly the tidings that his brother had brought him. He might have said: ‘Jerusalem is a long way off. I have my own work to do; it is no part of my business to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. I am the King’s cupbearer. They went with their eyes open, and experience has shown that the people who knew when they were well off, and stayed where they were, were a great deal wiser.’ These were not his excuses. He let the tidings fill his heart, and burn there.”
MacLaren makes a case that we have a duty as Christians to contemplate the affliction of those around us with sympathy and compassion.. He explains that “the first condition of [Christian] sympathy is knowledge; and the second is attending to what we do know.”
Knowing
It’s my opinion that the largest driver of fear is ignorance. When people don’t know, they assume the worst, and dwell on their worst-case-scenario fears. Fear erodes faith. A mentor and boss once taught me, while coaching me through my paralysis over a massive backlog of administrative work, that it’s worth the time to inventory what lies in ruin. After all, he said “you still might not know what to do with the monster, but at least you’ll know what the monster looks like. Then you can make a plan.”
You need to know what the monster looks like. You need to be informed about the motives, movements, alliances and agendas of the people who control our nation’s government and culture. Why? First, because precise prayers are effective (1 John 5:15). Our prayers need to be like the skillful cuts of a surgeon’s scalpel, not the blindly hacking swings of a distracted swordsman, and it’s hard to pull off an operation like that with your eyes closed.
Second, because many of us are ignorant of how our own government works and what our elected officials are enacting on our behalf. A government of, by and for the people requires the people to be engaged for the Republic to work properly. If we remain ignorant, corrupt leaders remain empowered to act without accountability.
And finally, we must be informed of the circumstances of those who are oppressed and hurting in our nation in order to genuinely sympathize with their plight.
Attending to What We Know
Once we become informed,what do we do next? Nehemiah responded by weeping (feelings of grief) and mourning (actively processing the feeling of grief).
Jesus said “blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” You’ll be pleased to know that the word comfort here matches the verb for comfort in 2 Corinthians 1:3-7, which we learned about in last week’s Call to Rise. The active nature of mourning is akin to the active nature of patiently enduring affliction- both result in much strengthening, otherwise known as comfort.
Nehemiah didn’t begin processing his grief (mourning) by marching into the king’s presence and demanding a leave of absence. He didn’t begin by making an action plan for rebuilding the wall. He began by fasting, praying and repenting before the God of Heaven.
Our earnest endeavor to see America rebuilt in righteousness ought to begin in the same way.
Fasting, Praying and Repenting
Nehemiah’s prayer in 1:5-11 is humbling and powerful. As we pray for God to transform America through us, let’s follow Nehemiah’s lead in seeking first the face and favor of Heaven. Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain (Psalm 127:1). Unless obedience to Christ is the foundation of what we build, nothing we build will stand against the forces of hell (Matthew 7:24-27). And unless we humble ourselves, pray and turn from our own wicked ways just as Nehemiah did, we cannot expect to see our land healed (2 Chronicles 7:14).
This is a time to weep and mourn, to fast and pray, and to humbly repent. These actions will open us up to the realization that only a Church strengthened by the Comforter can rebuild America into a nation of righteousness, justice and liberty. We’re not wired to grieve as those who have no hope; instead, like Nehemiah, we’ll allow our hearts to be broken over the things that break God’s heart. This godly sorrow leads to repentance, and then to salvation without regret (2 Corinthians 7:10).
Fellow Americans – the list of things for which we must repent is long. Repentance is not simply feeling sorry for what we’ve done – it also requires making a 180 degree turn away from our sin and going the opposite direction of the way we’ve been heading. God, forgive us for our apathy – help us turn the other way and choose to be engaged in the work of our government. Forgive us for allowing culture to shape our attitudes, habits and beliefs – help us turn the other way and influence the attitude, habits and beliefs of American culture as we abide in You. God – forgive us for neglecting the study of your word and quality time spent with You – help us to turn the other way and be people who invest their time and focus on knowing you; people who make building your Kingdom our highest priority. Forgive us for entertaining ourselves with things that break your heart – help us turn the other way and become people who revere and promote purity. God, forgive us for the bloodshed of innocent babies that stains our land – help us turn the other way and build a godly, caring culture that eliminates the demand for abortions rather than expecting a bureaucrat far away to legislate righteousness.
You may feel that you don’t need to repent for some of these things because you haven’t participated in them. Nehemiah didn’t need to take responsibility to repent for the sins of his brethren hundreds of miles away whose conduct was beyond his control.
And yet, he did.
This is the heart of intercession.
God is looking for someone with a heart like this, someone to stand in the gap between what America is and what she is destined to be.
May our hearts respond eagerly “Here I am, Lord. Send me!”
Prayer:
O Lord, God of Heaven, You are the great and awesome God who keeps covenant with those who love You and keep Your commandments. Please hear my petitions and see my trust in You. I come to You on behalf of America and I confess that we have sinned against You. I have sinned against You. My family has sinned against You. We have allowed good to be called evil and evil to be called good. We have entertained ourselves with things that break Your heart, and allowed ourselves to be so busy that we don’t have time or energy to center our lives around knowing You. Please forgive us, and empower us to turn from twisted ways back toward Your righteous ways. Remember the covenants You made with our forefathers and founders. Remember the promises You gave them. Remember Your intent and plans for America. Remember that You said You would save a city for just one righteous man. I stand now, with an entire remnant of believers who are clothed by grace in the righteousness of Jesus, and I ask that You save America for the sake of Your Name and Your testimony in the earth. Have mercy on us, Almighty God! Soften my heart and allow it to be broken by the things that break Your heart, and to be filled with joy by the things that give You joy, so I can become more like You. Please give me favor as I commit myself to establishing Your Kingdom, first in my own heart, and then in my home, neighborhood and nation. Here I am Lord – send me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Build Assignment:
Fast, pray and repent.
Contact all the members of your local School Board.
While it may not seem like much on the surface, the opening sentence-and-a-half of Nehemiah is rich with meaning that is relevant to the times in which we live. We are told that these are “the words of Nehemiah the son of Hacaliah.”
Nehemiah means God comforts or God is consolation.
In an era of great distress, for Americans in general, and certainly for followers of Jesus Christ, these are timely, welcome concepts. These are the words of God’s comfort and consolation.
What is God’s Comfort?
We can learn a great deal about the comfort of God through the truths given in 2 Corinthians 1:3-7, a passage that contains nearly one-third of all the occurrences of the word comfort in the New Testament. The concept of comfort in this passage is “to strengthen much” and “to encourage,” especially the encouragement of one who is enduring testing.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as we share abundantly in Christ’s sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too. If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; and if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which you experience when you patiently endure the same sufferings that we suffer. Our hope for you is unshaken, for we know that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in our comfort. (2 Corinthians 1:3-7 ESV)
These words, inspired by the Holy Spirit, were written by Paul, one of the most afflicted heroes of our faith. Consider all he endured for the sake of the Kingdom: Beatings, stoning, imprisonment, homelessness, hunger, shipwrecks and scorn. Yet Paul tells us that in the midst of all his mistreatment and distress, he was strengthened much (comforted) by God.
Paul experienced the strengthening of God as he experienced suffering for Christ’s sake. According to theologian R. Kent Hughes, “Paul links the Corinthians’ comfort to their patient endurance of sufferings: ‘It is for your comfort, which you experience when you patiently endure the same sufferings that we suffer’ (2 Corinthians 1:6).The phrase ‘comfort, which you experience’ is translated more literally as ‘comfort, which is energized.’”
Righteous affliction activates and energizes “much strengthening” from God, a gift given to those who patiently endure suffering for the Kingdom.
As if it was not kind enough that God formed this activating relationship between affliction and encouragement, He further designed His comfort to overflow. Paul was able to comfort others with the comfort he received from God because the comfort of God is always dispensed in excess of the need.
For as we share abundantly in Christ’s sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too. (2 Corinthians 1:5)
The word abundantly here means to “superabound” and “to be in excess; enough and to spare; to exceed a fixed number of measure; to abound, overflow.”
Because of it’s overflowing nature, God’s comfort does not conclude with the original beneficiary. The book of 2 Corinthians is itself an illustration of this truth: God’s comfort overflowed from the Corinthians to Titus, and then from Titus to Paul, and then back to the Corinthians through Paul’s letter and prayers. The cyclical nature of God’s consolation is also demonstrated in the slightly more contemporary story of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, as told by Hughes.
[Bonhoeffer] was one of a handful of German theologians to stand up to the Nazification of the German church. He was prominent in writing the famous Barmen Declaration, which rejected the infamous Aryan clauses imposed by Nazi ideology. Bonhoeffer’s courage thrust him into the leadership of the Confessing Church along with other stalwarts like Martin Niemöller. Bonhoeffer went so far as to found an underground seminary in Finkenwald, Bavaria, which was closed by Gestapo chief Heinrich Himmler. This led to Bonhoeffer’s joining the resistance movement and his being imprisoned by the Gestapo in April 1943. Bonhoeffer’s Letters from Prison became a best seller after the war.
Among the letters is a beautiful poem written to his fiancée Maria von Wedemeyer entitled “New Year 1945.” Stanza 3 is famous:
Should it be ours to drain the cup of grieving Even to the dregs of pain, At thy command, we will not falter, Thankfully receiving all that is given By thy loving hand.
Poignant words that became more so when, three months later, just as the war was ending, Bonhoeffer was hung in Flossenbürg prison.
Fast-forward to some eighteen years later, across the Atlantic in America, when another bride-to-be was grieving the death of her fiancé and found much comfort in Bonhoeffer’s poem. Her fiancé, who died from injuries in a sledding accident, was the son of author Joseph Bayly and his wife Mary Lou. When she mailed Bonhoeffer’s poem to them, Joe and Mary Lou also found comfort in “New Year 1945.”
Twelve years after this (thirty years after Bonhoeffer’s death), Joe Bayly received a letter from a pastor-friend in Massachusetts relating that he had visited a terminally ill woman in a Boston hospital for some period of time and had given her Joe’s book of poems, Heaven, as comfort for her soul. The pastor said that the dying woman had stayed awake late the previous night to read it and told him of the comfort and help she had received from it. A few hours later she died. The woman, the pastor revealed, was Maria von Wedemeyer-Weller, Bonhoeffer’s fiancée three decades earlier!
God’s comfort circulates among his children — and sometimes it comes full circle, as it did from Dietrich Bonhoeffer to Maria von Wedemeyer in her grief to Joseph Bayly, Jr.’s grieving fiancée to Joe and Mary Lou Bayly in their grief and then back to Bonhoeffer’s one-time fiancée as comfort in her dying hours. [2 Corinthians 1:3-7] alludes to this astonishing cyclical nature of comfort — its mutuality — its overflowing nature.
The soul of America needs reviving, and that endeavor will surely come with times of sacrifice, opposition and even affliction of various kinds. As we commit to rebuilding godly culture in our nation, we can be confident that God’s comfort will not only meet us in the place of opposition, but that His encouragement and strengthening is designed to abundantly exceed our distress. In fact, it will overflow in such abundance that it’s effect will be multiplied when we extend this same comfort to those around us.
Every time Nehemaih’s name was spoken, these truths were declared. As we study Nehemiah’s words, let’s be sure to declare these truths to our own souls and our fellow believers. We must be confident of the fact that the God who gives comfort and consolation in the midst of darkness, is with us.
“So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria had peace and was being built up. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it multiplied.” (Acts 9:31).
Prayer: Note | The Rise & Build Campaign prayers are meant to be read aloud since faith comes by hearing (Romans 10:17). When we all pray the same prayer, we take advantage of the power of agreement (Matthew 18:19-20). Don’t be shy – prayer this prayer out loud!
Father, You are the source of all comfort. I am answering Your call to rise and build Your Kingdom, in America, and ultimately the world. As I encounter affliction through this work, I trust that You will strengthen me much and graciously give me abundant encouragement. I wait for You. Lend me Your confident trust when mine is insufficient. Speak to me about the good things You plan to do in me, and in America, that I may wait in ambush for your goodness with hope and joy. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Build Assignment: Note |Build Assignments will typically only involve two items, but this week is extra special with four. 🙂
Meditate on the hope we have in Christ.
Write a list of your community’s School Board members.
Write a list of your County leadership (often County Commissioners).
When is your community’s next School Board meeting? County-level leadership meeting? Add these meetings to your schedule and commit to:
Attend the meeting (Note: These meetings are often virtual in 2021)
Ask at least one question during each meeting. Not sure what to ask? Visit our Facebook Group to ask for insight from others.
