And I looked and arose and said to the nobles and to the officials and to the rest of the people, “Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes.” (Nehemiah 4:14, ESV)
Nehemiah reminded the people that it was the Lord, who is great and awesome that they served. They were doing God’s work. When we do God’s work, we cannot fail. Because it is God’s work! God does not make mistakes. So when he calls us to serve, we can be confident in that calling.
Sometimes it is easy to forget whose work we are doing. If it is our work, we will feel as if it is dependent upon us. But if we remember it is God’s work, we will realize it is dependent upon God.
It is a great privilege that we have to do God’s work. I find it incredibly humbling to be a pastor in God’s church and that I get to participate with God in bringing the good news of Jesus to people. But doing God’s work is not something that is reserved for a pastor. Every person can do God’s work in a way that is unique to their calling and gifting.
Knowing God will accomplish the work does not make it easy. Nehemiah says, “fight!” And it is indeed a fight. It is a struggle. But it is a fight worth fighting. Because it is about the kingdom of God which is about the welfare of people. We fight for our families, for our friends, for our neighbors, and even our enemies. There is no better fight than that because it is God’s fight.
Reflection
- Where is God calling you to fight for what is right?
- How does doing God’s work, give you confidence?
Prayer
Lord, thank you for calling me as your servant. I find it a privilege to participate together with you in your work. When I start to experience fear or anxiety, remind me that you will always accomplish what you order. Give me the courage to fight for all that is right and for the benefit of others. Amen.
Leave a Reply