Nehemiah 4:16-23 THE SOUND OF THE TRUMPET There is an urgency to the work of God that escapes the minds of the Lord's people when we are occupied with the ordinary things of daily life. But when a work has to be done that is out in public view, it is important that it is seen to progress in spite of obstacles and opposition. Complaints and fears are normal and have to be heard and dealt with, but the work at hand is our responsibility to complete. We must not lose sight of the objective. God has given this work to us to accomplish for the benefit of His people. It is a testimony to those around us, many who have a negative opinion of that which claims to be "Christian." God's people are given a new understanding of who we are and why we are here. The kingdom of God is strengthened and furthered in the area where we live when we give ourselves to the work with joy and enthusiasm.
God had frustrated the plans of the enemies of the Jews to stop the work of rebuilding the walls. All of the people returned to the work, but there were significant changes that intimidated the enemies. Now rather than those who opposed appearing to be a strong force against the rebuilding work, it was the other way around. Half of the people were armed and poised to defend the work with shields and body armor on them, and others with bows and spears ready to act on a moment’s notice if and when any move was made toward them. A unified plan of defense to protect the people of God is important. "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much more, as ye see the day approaching." God's people need each other's help because of the danger that the spiritual enemies we face direct toward us.
There was also an order established when the work was going on. Each group of workers had one of their own leaders supporting them and keeping his eye on what was happening in front of, and around them. This would let those who labored concentrate on the work and at the same time they would be encouraged and led if an attack came. There was also a certain security for each individual in that they had a sword on them at all times. Those who carried material were to keep their weapon in one hand and do their work with the other. This would mean they likely worked in pairs so that if they had to go outside the wall to dump rubbish or get material to bring to the work, they would be protected by each other as they carried a container together. Beside being well armed and well guarded, there was a communication system, so that when Nehemiah sounded the warning, all the people could rally to the point of attack.
In the work of the Lord there is a need for unwavering faith in God and confidence that our work has divine sanction. There is also the need of common sense to deal with the work and opposition to it, in a practical and positive way. The goal is why we press ahead with a work, but there are some things that need to be done along the way to promote that work. It is the final goal that needs to be emphasized rather than the difficulties we face even though we cannot ignore them. We just can't let them side-track us from the ultimate objective and take priority in our labors.
To keep a work that has been entrusted to us from slowing down and maybe even stopping, calls for vigilant attention to be paid to the details, the thoughts and concerns of those with whom we labor. To disparage or ignore the complaints or suggestions of others will separate a leader from those he should be leading. Nehemiah knew he was responsible for the overall work, and he also knew that everyone had to have a sense of ownership in the work. He was not an aloof man who told the people, "Do what I say." He used the words "we" and "us" as one does when they are actively involved in the work. In this way he was a unifying force to the whole work. Even more, he knew he was a spiritual leader. He was a spokesman for God. "Our God will fight for us."
Nehemiah also knew it was important to keep the enemies outside from knowing what was going on inside. In order to do this, all who had been coming into the city daily were to stay in the city until the work was completed. They were to serve as guards at night as well as working during the day. He was asking for a lot from the people for the month and a half of intensive labor. But he did not ask anything of them that he was not prepared to give himself. Those who are true leaders do not just serve "in advisory capacity." They are involved in all phases of a work, and do not slack back because of the position they hold. They know how to work and the people well enough to be able to put their hand to the work and lend assistance to anyone who needs help and personal encouragement.
Nehemiah was on the job twenty-four hours a day until the work was completed. He likely rested whenever he could get a few minutes to lie down wherever he was. Those who led the work only took off their work clothes when they washed. They worked and slept in their clothes ready at a moment's notice for any contingency that might arise. A man that God can use has the big picture in his mind and heart. Our Lord Jesus Christ was with His own disciples when He was preparing them for the work that was ahead of them. By His presence with them in the work, He made every part of every day's activity important. Nehemiah did the same. That is the pattern of leadership we should follow today.
A leader's ability to know what has to be done and how to do it, is a good thing. He may be cool, calm and collected under pressure. He may spend time praying for the work and for God's help in the work. But unless he is willing to expend time, energy and sweat in the work, he will find the people who follow him will lose heart and soon make excuses for not showing up. "Water rises to its own level." A leader of people sets the level, and when he joins heartily with the saints of God in the work joyfully and enthusiastically, he will find the work goes well and God's people will be glad they are there and are involved in such an important work
A hand of one man said to the hand of another, "How about lending me a hand? If we work in tandem, we can together Do as good or better than one man." So, working together they carried a load, That was easier than doing it alone. It may seem simple, but the unity showed - Until the task was finally done.
There was more to consider than just one thing. The other hands of the two men were filled. They carried a weapon, safety to bring To the laborers lest they be killed. Unity and safety go hand in hand, It is hard to have one without the other. Thus, the work can advance as God has planned When we work together as brothers.
"I am thankful Father, for those who guard the people. Also, for those who come alongside to promote and encourage. And there are also those who are willing to communicate meaningfully with us. Thanks for the blessing of being one of Thy people and for what we share with them. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen."