Nehemiah 4:10-14. As the Jews are working on rebuilding Jerusalem's walls, their enemies are plotting to attack them before they can complete the work. The Jews place a guard and pray for guidance and protection. But Judah realizes "the strength of the burden-bearers is failing...we are not able to work on the wall." He foresees enemies slipping into Jerusalem, behind the wall, and killing them within the city. They have had many warnings from Jews who live outside of Jerusalem, near the enemies, saying that the attacks are coming. So Judah has the people themselves defend all weak parts of the wall - "the lowest parts" and "the open places." The people are stationed there with their swords, spears, and bows. Judah then exhorts all the nobles, officials, and people to have courage "Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and terrible, and fight for your brethren, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes."

This is so inspiring to me! We often find ourselves without the protection of our "walls" (I do right now - I have lost much of my support system, except for God). As we work on rebuilding our walls, we are vulnerable. The devil knows this, and this is when he plans his attacks on us. As I have struggled through wave after wave of his attacks recently, I have been unable to rebuild my walls while defending myself, my family, my loved ones, and my home. I am a very weary burden-bearer. As this spiritual battle the world is undergoing right now continues to rage, it often seems overwhelming to me.

But Judah is speaking to me here - I am not to be afraid. The Lord has promised to protect us as we fight for our loved ones and for the Kingdom of God. He has given me so many messages throughout this time, bringing me courage and peace when most needed. I have to remember that he is "great and terrible," trust him, and not be afraid. His heavenly host is behind us. I have seen evidence of their assistance over and over again.

We are, though, still to bring our own "swords, spears, and bows" to the fight. God has gifted each of us with certain talents and assets - these are our weapons for this battle. We are to hone them and bring them into the fight. They will be enough for us, when coupled with his grace. He will allow me to be brought as low as I need to go in order to learn to wield my weapons with humility, remembering his mercy and justice. I know this is an ongoing lesson for me, and with each encounter with the enemy, I gain humility, and thus strength.

"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." 2 Corinthians 12:9.