Nehemiah 7:1-3, Ephesians 6:10-17 – Being Alert
The wall around the city had been completed, provision made for public worship and the governing authority put in place, but Nehemiah was very much aware that the city was still not safe from the attacks of their enemies. A great victory had been achieved but it is precisely at the time of victory that the greatest danger is present because the guard tends to be relaxed.
Nehemiah was very well aware of that, and so he issued instructions that, unlike the common practice in most middle Eastern cities when the gates of the city were opened at sunrise, the gates of Jerusalem were not to be opened until later in the day. This was to ensure that no surprise attack could be mounted using the cover of dawn, and it would also ensure that the defenders would be wide awake! During the time that the gates were open, they were to be guarded right up until after they had been closed and bolted. Nehemiah also instructed that those who guarded the city would have responsibility to be vigilant for the area around their own homes.
What a great lesson this teaches for both church and home! In the spiritual warfare there is a need for constant vigilance, for the enemy of souls is constantly on the prowl seeking to attack the believer and the church of God 1 Pet. 5:8. Great watchfulness is especially needed after a period of great blessing or success in the work of God. Nehemiah realised how important it was for each family to protect and strengthen their own home, and so it is with regard to the spiritual life. The church is strong when the individual families that make up the church are constantly on the alert to identify and to resist the attacks of the devil.
Questions
- What did Nehemiah command concerning the gates?
- What was each person responsible to guard?
Prayer Points
- Pray that we would be alert and on guard against Satan.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.