Let’s Go And Rebuild The Walls

Many times, when we hear the name Nehemiah, our thoughts go straight to the rebuilding of the wall. Unfortunately, we often forget about the people who stood behind him in this monumental task.

From the instructions of the Persian King, Nehemiah was tasked with rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. I can only imagine how other Persian masons might have felt when Nehemiah was chosen for this responsibility. Perhaps Nehemiah had a proven track record—maybe he had built walls elsewhere and earned a reputation for efficiency and quality work. This might explain why he was entrusted with such a critical task.

However, Nehemiah’s journey was not without challenges. He faced intense opposition from Sanballat, the governor of the Samaritans, who mocked and even attempted to physically attack the workers. Despite these obstacles, Nehemiah persevered, demonstrating resilience and unwavering faith. His story in Nehemiah chapters 2-4 serves as a reminder to Christians today to remain steadfast in their faith and the work God calls them to, despite any opposition they may encounter.

I can only imagine how vulnerable Jerusalem was without its walls—how easily enemies could infiltrate and attack. Similarly, when our spiritual walls are down, the enemy takes advantage of our vulnerability. Like Nehemiah, we are called to rebuild these walls, for the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. But when our spiritual defenses are strong, we are far less likely to fall prey to his schemes.

Just like Nehemiah, God assigns us tasks based on our experiences and our trust in Him. Yet, opposition is inevitable. The enemy will try to discourage us, derail us, and attack our faith to make our assignments feel impossible. In these moments, we might question whether the assignment truly came from God.

C.S. Lewis captures this inner struggle beautifully in his prayer:
“They tell me Lord, that when I pray, only one voice is heard;
That I’m dreaming, you’re not there, this whole thing is absurd.
Maybe they’re right, Lord, maybe they’re right.
Maybe there’s only one voice that’s heard.
But if there’s only one voice that’s heard,
Lord, it’s not mine, it’s your voice.
I’m not dreaming; you are the dreamer.
And I am your dream.”

God is always faithful. Like Nehemiah, He calls us to rebuild—not just physical walls but our faith, our prayer lives, our families, and above all, our calling. What is your calling? Have you been called to build? Then start building. Have you been called to preach? Go and preach, for the harvest is plentiful. Be faithful as Nehemiah was. Opposition, like Sanballat, will arise, but God has given us the tools to silence such distractions.

“Stop at the crossroads and look around. Ask for the old, godly way, and walk in it. Travel its path, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Jeremiah 6:16)

Remember, God has placed you where you are for a specific reason. Stand in the gap. Like Esther, you have been chosen for such a time as this. Go forth and rebuild.