10 In Judah it was said, “The strength of those who bear the burdens is failing. There is too much rubble. By ourselves we will not be able to rebuild the wall.” 11 And our enemies said, “They will not know or see till we come among them and kill them and stop the work.” 12 At that time the Jews who lived near them came from all directions and said to us ten times, “You must return to us.” 13 So in the lowest parts of the space behind the wall, in open places, I stationed the people by their clans, with their swords, their spears, and their bows. 14 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)
The people were weary and worried. They had worked hard, done all they could, and still felt like things were stacked against them. They felt defeated and all they could hear was criticism and negative talk. They wondered if all hope was gone. Nehemiah's message was short and simple: "Remember the Lord". He is a mighty God. And remember others whom you have a responsibility to and for. In times like this we can become so self-focused we cannot even see how much the people around us - our family, church family, and community need us. We can make a difference - in our attitudes, actions, and dependence on the Lord. Remember Him.
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