I’m one who prefers to focus on God in all things, because only he is worth our undivided attention.

However, we must also remember, whenever we see God on the move, evil isn’t standing still.

Consider Nehemiah. He was Artaxerxes cupbearer and a Jew after they were exiled during Nebuchadnezzar’s reign. He heard that the walls of Jerusalem were destroyed, and the remnant of Israel was in danger. He eventually asked the king to let him go to Judah to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, which the king agreed.

In chapter four, while they rebuilt the walls and gates, several of their enemies, Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite, taunted and threatened them, hoping to discourage and frighten the Jews so they would stop rebuilding.

“And we prayed to our God and set a guard as protection against [our enemies] day and night.” (4:9, ESV)

Even though the people were still afraid, Nehemiah continued to encourage them. “… Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes.” (4:14b)

“From that day on, half my servants worked on construction, and half held spears, shields, bows, and coats of mail. And the leaders stood behind the whole house of Judah, who were building on the wall. Those who carried burdens were loaded in such a way that each labored on the work with one hand and held his weapon with the other. And each of the builders had his sword strapped at his side while he built.” (14:16-18a).

With the assassination of Charlie Kirk, thousands have either given their life to Christ, began attending church, or returned to church after many years.

One could not watch his memorial on September 21 and not see the Holy Spirit working.

Yet we’re also seeing an increase in violence, including the attack on an LDS church in Michigan just this morning.

So what does all this have to do with Nehemiah?

Because even though he and the Jews trusted God to protect them and their families while they rebuilt the walls and gates, they understood that the guard as mentioned in verse 9 could very well have been themselves. They showed their enemy that they were willing and able to fight even as they worked, and that alone probably kept them at bay.

We must also do the same. If we show ourselves willing and able to protect our homes, family, church, etc., we, too, can help God keep away the enemy standing at the gates.