The Need to Move Forward

Introduction:

When life knocks you down, it’s easy to stay down. When the road gets rough, it’s easy to just quit. But the Bible is quite clear that quitters don’t win. (I Corinthians 9:24) Only those who overcome get to sit with Jesus on His throne in heaven. (Revelation 3:2) So we must have the courage and the determination to keep moving forward. Nehemiah provides us with a great example of how this is done.

Text: Nehemiah 2:17-20

Body:

I. Encouragement Is Given (Verses 17-18)

· Nehemiah doesn’t sugarcoat nor exaggerate the problem. He tells the people what the situation truly is. He had made a thorough examination of the city to see the extent of the damage. (Nehemiah 2:11-15) His words to them were clear and realistic. We must do the same when we encounter difficulties. We must not under-nor-over estimate the problem.

· Nehemiah stressed it was the whole nation’s problem. Note the use of “we” and “us.” It is very discouraging to think the problem is all yours and that you have no help. (Galatians 6:2)

· To encourage the people, Nehemiah sketched the history of his past life and showed how God’s providence had worked in his life. (Nehemiah 2:7-8, Psalm 37:23)

· He called for them to be united in their efforts. “Let us build.” There was a determination to work together for the goal; so that they would no longer suffer derision or be a reproach. (Nehemiah 1:3, Psalm 44:13) They were to exhort and encourage one another as are we. (Hebrews 10:24-25) 

II. The Opposition Is Dealt With (Verses 19-20)

· When things are going well, opposition arises. (Nehemiah 2:10) (II Corinthians 2:11, Psalm 121:1-2)

· Religion is often the subject of ridicule. Its beliefs are scorned and jeered. Refuse to give in to scare tactics. (Nehemiah 6:5-9) Place your confidence in God. (Psalm 18:6)

· Nehemiah says that Jehovah is with him, not with Tobiah, . . . He says that he has a divine sanction for his work and that Tobiah will get nothing. He has a great work to do and he is not going to let them sidetrack him from doing it. The faithful child of God always has an advantage because God is with him.

· Nehemiah did not hesitate to speak the truth in front of his enemies. (Nehemiah 4:4-5)

Conclusion:

We must have courage to move forward. The future may seem scary. Not everyone is happy to move forward; so opposition may arise. It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the task ahead. But remember that if you are doing God’s work, He is with you. 

Bobby Stafford

April 27, 2014