22 April

“But I replied, ‘Should someone in my position run from danger? Should someone in my position enter the Temple to save his life? No, I won’t do it!’” (Nehemiah 6:11 NLT)

Pretending to be on his side when the enemies plotted against him to stop his God-ordained assignment, Shemaiah told Nehemiah to run for his life and hide behind closed doors in the temple, which was meant only for priests. Even though Nehemiah lived years before Jesus came as man, he rejected fear and his words reflect the words of Jesus in Matthew 10:28 – “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” How do we respond to challenges that raise fear? Nehemiah was prayerful, spiritually discerning and courageous.

ACTION: Pray always! Be spiritually discerning and courageous.

PRAYER: Lord, grant us grace to stand firm and strong at such a time as this!