Each one of us has a good work to do. We may not see it yet, but it’s often right there in front of our eyes. For Nehemiah, it was a crumbled wall. For you, it could be an injustice in the world, or a need you see what no one else does. During this series, we will learn how Nehemiah responded to his own calling and learn how we can change our own world just by leaning into the unique calling that God has put in front of each of us. This four-week series will take a closer look at the good work God called Nehemiah to do and show us how his story can be an example in our own lives. God has called us all to a good work in our world, in our neighborhood, or in our family. This series will challenge us to find our purpose, understand our opposition, and give us the tools and encouragement to live out our calling
The Good Work Standing Strong in the Face of Opposition
Text: Nehemiah 4:1-6, 10-12, 14
Pastor Tom Cogle
Sunday, July 21, 2019
When the work starts to go down, the opposition shows up.
Don’t be surprised when you face opposition!The DEVIL doesn’t BOTHER those who are NOT A THREAT.
How do you respond to critics?
•Most of the time, you don’t.
•Nehemiah doesn’t respond, he doesn’t answer, and he doesn’t defend.
•Your response isn’t going to convert your critics.
•The only thing a response does is it validates the critics.
•When you acknowledge your critics, you actually give them power.
It’s not easy when you are criticized, but it is even more difficult from people that you love.
What did Nehemiah do in the face of opposition?
•He prayed to God, and he got back to work and the wall continued to go up. WHY?
•Because the people worked with all their heart.
When you do something with all your heart, there won’t be room in your heart for the critics to get to you!
The greater the opposition against you, the greater the opportunity for God to fight for you.
When your enemy shows up to try to slow you down, you remember the Lord your God, and fight for what God called you to fight for.