How To Stay On Mission

In our daily lives, we often find ourselves caught up in a whirlwind of activities, responsibilities, and challenges. But have you ever stopped to consider that there might be more going on behind the scenes? That perhaps we're engaged in a spiritual battle that we can't see with our physical eyes?

The story of Nehemiah rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem provides a powerful metaphor for the struggles we face in our own lives as we try to stay on mission and accomplish what God has called us to do. Just as Nehemiah and the Israelites faced opposition and challenges, we too encounter obstacles that threaten to derail us from our purpose.

The opposition Nehemiah faced came in three main forms, which mirror the tactics the enemy often uses against us today:

1. Questions and Accusations: The first line of attack is often to plant seeds of doubt. "Are you sure this is what God wants? Is this really the right thing to do?" Sound familiar? These questions are designed to make us second-guess ourselves and God's leading in our lives.
2. Insults and Threats: When doubt doesn't work, the enemy often resorts to discouragement and fear. "You're not capable of this. You'll never succeed. Why even try?" These attacks aim to paralyze us with fear and crush our spirits.
3. Distractions: Perhaps the most insidious tactic is distraction. The enemy knows that if he can't stop us outright, he can at least try to redirect our efforts away from what truly matters. We become "famous as a people for focusing our energies on that which is good to the exclusion of that which is great."

In the face of these attacks, Nehemiah's response provides a powerful example for us to follow:

1. Prayer: Every time Nehemiah encountered opposition, his first response was to pray. He didn't try to face the challenges in his own strength but immediately turned to God for guidance and support.
2. Persistence: Despite the threats and discouragements, Nehemiah and the people kept building. They didn't let the opposition stop them from doing what they knew was right.
3. Focus: Nehemiah refused to be distracted by false invitations or rumors. He stayed committed to the task at hand, recognizing the importance of the work he was doing.

While external opposition is real, we also face internal struggles that can be just as challenging. The story highlights two primary areas of temptation:

Greed: Some of the wealthy Israelites were exploiting their poorer brothers, charging interest on loans and even enslaving their children. This serves as a stark reminder of how easily we can be tempted to prioritize financial gain over the well-being of others.

Lust: The people had intermarried with surrounding nations, despite God's clear instructions against this. This represents our tendency to compromise our values and pursue what we want, regardless of what God says is best for us.

These internal battles remind us that sometimes our greatest enemy is ourselves – our own desires and temptations that lead us away from God's best for our lives.

So how do we stay on track and accomplish what God has called us to do in the face of these challenges? Here are a few key principles we can glean from Nehemiah's example:






Despite all the opposition and challenges, Nehemiah and the people completed the wall in just 52 days – a feat so impressive that even their enemies had to acknowledge that it was God's doing. This serves as a powerful reminder that when we stay committed to what God has called us to do, the results can be truly miraculous.

Our lives, too, can become a testimony to God's faithfulness and power when we persevere in the face of opposition. Just as people looked at the rebuilt wall and saw evidence of God's work, our lives can point others to the reality and power of God.

As you reflect on these truths, take a moment to ask yourself: What is the mission God has given me? Am I staying focused on that mission, or have I allowed myself to become distracted by lesser things? Are there areas of my life where I've compromised or given in to temptation?

Remember, the enemy can't take away your salvation or God's love for you, but he can try to make you less effective in this life. Don't let him succeed. Stay committed to your mission, keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, and trust that God will give you the strength and resources you need to accomplish what He's called you to do.

In the end, it will be worth it. Your perseverance and faithfulness will become a testimony to God's power and grace, inspiring others and bringing glory to His name. So stay the course, keep building, and watch in amazement as God works through your life in ways you never thought possible.