Over the last few weeks, we’ve been studying about Nehemiah rebuilding the wall; but in true biblical fashion, we know this story goes much deeper. The wall was merely a reflection of the hearts and minds of the people. Their marriages, families, and relationships had been attacked, much like ours today. They had lost sight of all God had for them, and they needed help finding their way. Nehemiah is about restoring God’s values back onto the people.

Like Nehemiah, God created us all for a purpose. He has a vision for our lives, and it’s up to us to carry it out. If we value what He has called us to value, He will bless our efforts, but we must stay focused on the task at hand.

Read: Nehemiah 6:1-9

When Nehemiah was commissioned to rebuild the wall, he knew it wouldn’t be easy. Anything truly valuable rarely is. God refused to allow the wall to be rebuilt before the people were, so Nehemiah remained steadfast in his purpose. It was important to him. Regardless of all that was going on around him, he determined that he would not come down. He would not only finish the wall but also tend to the hearts of his people and restore both to bring honor and glory to God.

There is no way the enemy can keep us from building what God has called us to build. Everything we need to succeed has been placed in our hands. We are the only ones who can stand in our way. If we hold on to God’s vision for our lives, we can stay focused on the right things.

Journal: Name some things the enemy is currently using to distract you from God’s vision for your life.

God wants to give us everything we desire, but He has a priority order to His plan. So many times we get ahead of ourselves and try to pursue our own thing. We can’t let this distract us from what He has called us to first. We must get to the place where our yes’s and our no’s are predetermined, and that comes by staying focused on His vision for our lives. It’s not about checking boxes. It’s about turning our hearts toward God. The more we pray, the more clarity we receive, and this ultimately strengthens our trust in God.

What vision has God given you in your life? Have you been distracted by the world around you? Determine today that you will seek God first in all you do, and He will fulfill His promise.

Journal: After listening to Part 3 in our message series, Nehemiah, “I Am Not Coming Down,” describe the vision you believe God has given you for your life.

Activation: Choosing one of the distractions you listed earlier, share how this week you will actively prevent this from diverting your attention from God’s values so you can attain His vision for your life.

Prayer: Father, I know you have a vision for my life. Your plan is always worth the wait. I pray that you will strengthen me when distractions come my way. Clothe me in the full armor of God, so that I may stand against the enemy’s schemes. My struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the the spiritual forces of evil. Your Word is an indispensable weapon, and prayer is essential in this war. Equip me spiritually and mentally so I may keep my eye on the vision you have for me. Amen