“I said to them, ‘The gates of Jerusalem are not to be opened until the sun is hot. While the gatekeepers are still on duty, have them shut the doors and bar them. Appoint residents of Jerusalem as guards.’”
Nehemiah 7:3
For a brief moment, we’re allowed to exhale while reading the story of Nehemiah. With the walls of Jerusalem rebuilt, God’s enemies stand in fear of Him and His people. But such moments of satisfaction are short-lived in a wilderness world still marked by brokenness. Beware the idol of arrival. You will not enjoy the goodness of the Lord in its fullness until you join Him in glory.
Nehemiah knew better. God’s enemies might be deterred, but they were still at work. They still had influence over swaths of God’s people. Satan never concedes defeat—he simply waits for a more opportune time (see Luke 4). Even as Nehemiah arranged for the proper worship of God in Jerusalem, he ordered the gates to be continually secured.
Friends, Satan will lull you into thinking the battle is already won. Jesus transformed your heart by the power of the Holy Spirit. Perhaps your marriage, your employment, or your ministry work is going well. In these times we often forget the God of our sanctification who has given us life and breath and everything.
Nehemiah knew better. God’s enemies might be deterred, but they were still at work. They still had influence over swaths of God’s people. Satan never concedes defeat—he simply waits for a more opportune time (see Luke 4). Even as Nehemiah arranged for the proper worship of God in Jerusalem, he ordered the gates to be continually secured.
Friends, Satan will lull you into thinking the battle is already won. Jesus transformed your heart by the power of the Holy Spirit. Perhaps your marriage, your employment, or your ministry work is going well. In these times we often forget the God of our sanctification who has given us life and breath and everything.
Scripture Focus
Nehemiah 6:15-7:4
Insight
Rejoice in the Lord’s good work, but keep laboring until He brings you into His eternal rest.
Bible In A Year
- 2 Samuel 7-8
- Psalm 139
- Philippians 3-4