Nehemiah, what he has for you

My bible study this morning came from the book of Nehemiah. This book is amazing. I would encourage everyone who has ever struggled to do God's will, done God's will or even thought about doing God's will to read and study this book. Even though in our minds we understand their is opposition to God's work, sometimes it is hard to put into practical terms. Nehemiah has made that very clear. If we know the patterns and ways of Satan it will be easier to see them when they come and be able to fight them with God's word. As the people returned from exile, and were rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem they were under tremendous attack not only from the outside but also from the inside. Let's look at some of the opposition the people were under. Externally they were attacked with criticism, scorn, false accusations, diversion, influence, fear and many others. Internally they were attacked with discouragement, dissension, false prophets and others. When the temple was being restored they had to repair many gates. Each gate had a name and come to find out each gate actually represents a spiritual truth. I would encourage each one of you to read Nehemiah and discover the spiritual truths of the gates. Then you will be more readily equiped to fight against the enemy when he attacks with untruth. For example, the water gate is a symbol of the Word of God. It we spend more time at the water gate then we will have more knowledge to defend and fight. The fish gate is a symbol of soul-winning. Can you imagine what would happen if everyone spent even 5 extra minutes a day at the fish gate? How many souls would be touched by the hand of God if we were to follow His plan? Nehemiah is a tremendous encouragement to those following God's will and also a challenge to those who are afraid or feel they really can't do God's will. Take the challenge and see what blessings God gives you for obeying His commands!! God's blessing comes through humbling ourselves and seeking Him.