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A MIND TO WORK AND PRAY (IV)
LORD’S DAY, JANUARY 25
Nehemiah 4:7-11

Luke 21:34-38

 

“Watch ye therefore,

and pray always.”

 

A MIND TO WORK AND PRAY (IV)
 
The work that had been mocked and derided then drew a different form of opposition with the threat of war. This means that the work, though it was mocked, was actually done well. The measure of a work done is sometimes seen in the response it draws. The mockings of the enemy were aimed at discouraging, but were not a true reflection of the quality and progress of the work. The threat and the increased opposition served to confirm the fruitfulness of the work. The response of the workers at this point was one of increased zeal and effort.
 
Nevertheless we made our prayer unto our God (Neh 4:9). The increase in opposition to God’s work did not lead to a waning dedication to the service and work of God. The enemy increased in number, but the workers remained prayerful and resolute. The resolve, unity or increase of the enemy and opposition to the work of God should not adversely affect the servants’ resolve and duty to their God. Work that begins with prayer is sustained and continued with prayer. Every answered prayer increases faith and prompts subsequent prayerful responses in the course of the work. They had prayed as they faced challenges, and then as the challenges increased, they continued to pray. Prayer must be the Christian’s unchanging resolve and response to life and service.
 
And set a watch against them day and night (Neh 4:9). The increased threats led them to pray, but also increased their watchfulness. They understood the value of their work and progress through the response of the enemy. To protect the progress made thus for, they knew their need to increase vigilance. They were already engaged in a great work, but the threat to the work added to them the duty and responsibility of ensuring the gains made in the work were maintained.
 
THOUGHT: Progress made in service needs to be preserved against the enemy’s attempts to destroy it.
PRAYER: Father, grant me strength to watch and pray continually as I serve Thee.

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