They were all trying to frighten us, thinking, “Their hands will get too weak for the work, and it will not be completed.” But I prayed, “Now strengthen my hands.” Nehemiah 6:9
Here I was again, walking away from another argument. Another chance to stand tall and face the heated words went out the window. I blew another opportunity to be a positive witness for my Savior. I failed to give an unpopular answer which might have later sparked some serious soul-searching on the part of someone I love.
Instead of facing some uncomfortable moments, I caved like the coward I am.
Worst of all, my daughter witnessed it.
If I want her to live with courage, then I need to portray it. I need to provide an example.
Nehemiah’s enemies threatened to kill him and the other Israelites who worked to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. When the threats continued, Nehemiah knelt to pray. He didn’t ask God to save him or send the enemies away. He asked for strength.
When I’m in the middle of a struggle, too often I ask God to save me. I pray for His protection. I don’t want to endure the pain. I shy away from the battle.
God saves me when I request it, but is He disappointed with my lack of trust? Does He sigh inwardly and wonder when I will learn that these trials can bring Him glory if I allow Him to lead me?
God gave Nehemiah a burden to do what He called him to do. Then He answered Nehemiah’s prayer to help him do it.
Asking God to strengthen us for the storm, rather than to save us from it, may change the outcome as well as our attitude. It could change eternity for someone who silently watches.
God is up for the challenge. He is equipping us, even now, to do what He requires us to do.
Lord, strengthen our hands.
Sandra M. Hart writes for the A Hart for History link on DevoKids.com, where she serves as Assistant Editor. She has written for The Secret Place, Voice, Afictionado, and Common Ground. She is a contributor for Faith & Finance: In God We Trust, and writes historical romance novels.
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