Summary

Despite the opposition, Nehemiah refused to be distracted, deceived, or discouraged. He stayed focused on God’s calling and completed the wall in just 52 days—an impossible feat apart from God’s power.

Sermon Questions

1. How did Nehemiah respond to the various tactics of his enemies (distraction, intimidation, and false accusations)? How can we apply his example when facing opposition in our spiritual walk?
2. Nehemiah refused to meet with Sanballat and Tobiah. How can we discern when to engage with opposition and when to avoid distractions?
3. What role did fear play in the enemy’s strategy? How does Nehemiah’s prayer in verse 9 (“But now, O God, strengthen my hands”) encourage us when we are discouraged?
4. The wall was completed, but Nehemiah took further steps to secure Jerusalem. What does this teach us about not just finishing a task but also ensuring ongoing spiritual security in our lives?
5. Though the city was large, the people were few (7:4). How does God work through small numbers and seemingly insignificant beginnings?