One of the fascinating things about the Bible is that we can see ourselves in its pages. Each verse, story, and parable shows us something we can learn. It’s important that we listen and apply it to our lives.

As we begin our new message series, Nehemiah, we find that the walls of Jerusalem have been torn down and the gates destroyed by fire. (Nehemiah 1:1-3) This was a big deal. To the people of God, Jerusalem represented the presence of God. It set them apart from everyone else. The walls were their “Salvation” and the gates their “Praise.” (Isaiah 60:18 NKJV) It gave them comfort and security. It was their refuge…and it was now gone.

Journal: What has been torn down in your life in the last few years? (i.e. relationship, marriage, job, finances, dream…)

Just like Jerusalem, the enemy wants nothing more than to tear down our walls and torch our praise, and he knows exactly how to do it. (1 Peter 5:8 NKJV) He preys on our weakness and finds holes in our defense. He’s not very creative, yet we continue to let him in. We leave ourselves exposed by failing to prepare.

So often we react to problems in our lives instead of being proactive before they come our way. Whether in our thought life, our marriages, or any other area, we must strengthen our defense through prayer. It’s not an option. Prayer is the posture of the alert and ready. It keeps us on our toes. When our hearts are in tune with God and His promises, we can protect these areas from attack.

What happens when our walls are destroyed and our praises turned to ashes, just like the one you journaled about? Nehemiah didn’t focus on the problem; instead, he reminded God of His promise. He didn’t back down from what God had said to him. Every promise of God is available to us so that we can be all that He wants us to be.

God is looking for people who care about what He cares about. We can’t do something great for Him until we allow Him to do something great in us. When we steward His burden, He will trust us with His vision and help us rebuild what He started within us.

Journal: After listening to Part 1 in our new message series, Nehemiah, “It’s Time To Rebuild,” what area in your life do you feel is vulnerable to the enemy?

Activation: List a few ways you can be proactive and strengthen this area of your life. Begin implementing these things this week.

Prayer: God, even though I walk through the darkest valleys, I will fear no evil for You are with me. (Psalm 23:4) You are my hiding place; You will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. (Psalm 32:7) You have promised that You are near to all who call on You in truth. (Psalm 145:18) So I stand before you now and lay {name the area of your life that is vulnerable} at Your feet. Expose what needs to be strengthened and show me how to do it. Rebuild what is broken in our nation, in my family, and in me. Do what only You can do. I trust in You.