Forward - wk2

"Forward in Opposition"

Nehemiah 4

Bryan Jones

As we continue our sermon series "Forward" from Nehemiah, we want to talk about some of the things that can cut off the flow of the Holy Spirit in our lives.  We have seen that the people of God have been scattered, and the walls of Jerusalem are in ruins.  The best and brightest  of God’s people have been taken to Babylon – and that’s where we find Nehemiah.
 
Nehemiah held a high-ranking position as cupbearer for the king.  Even in a foreign land, he was living a comfortable life.  But when Nehemiah heard of the conditions in Jerusalem, he stepped out of his comfort zone in obedience to God’s calling to rebuild the walls.
 
When we choose comfort over obedience, we cut off the flow of the Holy Spirit in our lives.  And even though Nehemiah chose obedience, he still faced opposition.  His enemies hatched a plan to stop the work on the walls.  The people started to lose hope, and fear and distress crept in.  Anger and disappointment followed.  And all of those things can cut off the flow of the Holy Spirit.
 
What situation do you find yourself in today that is cutting off the flow of the Holy Spirit in your life?  Where are you facing fear and distress?  A difficult marriage?  A job transition?  A health issue?
 
Nehemiah puts on a clinic on what to do when faced with opposition and we learn from Nehemiah that we must go “Forward in Opposition.”