Beyond the Weekend

January 1 | Fear

January 1, 2020

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“Moreover, according to these reports you are about to become their king and have even appointed prophets to make this proclamation about you in Jerusalem: ‘There is a king in Judah!’ Now this report will get back to the king; so come, let us meet together.” Nehemiah 6:6b-7

Read: Nehemiah 6:5-7

Listen: Nehemiah 6

TODAY’S MESSAGE

When those who oppose Nehemiah fail to distract him from rebuilding the wall, they turn to another powerful line of attack—fear. They send Nehemiah a letter and accuse him of starting a rebellion, threatening to send word to the king. This letter is meant to intimidate and scare Nehemiah into meeting with them. Instead of giving in to fear, he responds with truth and prays for strength.

Fear is an enemy to “great work” today. Fear of missing out (FOMO) keeps us from making necessary changes to our finances, relationships or at work. Crippled by fear of what might happen, this prevents us from investing in important areas of our life.

We can learn a lot from the response of Nehemiah. He responds with truth and then turns to God in prayer for strength. As we pursue important work, we will face resistance and fear. But remember a key truth—if God calls us to it, he will give us strength for it. This doesn’t mean it will be easy, but God will come alongside us amid the challenges and strengthen us along the way.

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

As you begin 2020 today, go to the Lord and ask for strength for your “great work.” Your prayer does not have to be long. Begin by opening your hands and praying the words Nehemiah did, “Lord, now strengthen my hands.” Continue to ask for his help as you pursue this work this new year.


Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.

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