Know Thyself and Know the World, Victory (in Christ) Is Surely in Hand

Know Thyself and Know the World, Victory (in Christ) Is Surely in Hand 
(Nehemiah 6)
Rev. Mark Kosko

 I. Nehemiah endured lies and threats without being provoked into escalating the matter
They tried to trick him into meeting but he simply told them he was too busy
(vv. 1-4)
They tried to spread outlandish rumors of heresy but he boldly denied them
(vv. 5-8)
They tried to lure him into committing sacrilege under threat of death but he resisted (vv. 10-13)

 II. He then prayed for God to strengthen his resolve to complete work on the Wall (v. 9)
He did not pray his enemies would be conquered, only that the work would be complete
Although he did ask God to remember these enemies who schemed against him (v. 14)

 III. Nehemiah was mature and wise enough to recognize the enemy’s tactics to
       provoke him
He discerned what they were attempting to do but did not escalate
His wisdom and reliance upon God gave him confidence
His enemies realized God’s presence and the work was completed (vv. 15-16)

 IV. How are we equipped in Christ to withstand the enemy’s attacks?
We have a helmet, sword and shield (Ephesians 6:11-15)
We have a disarming Grace, Mercy and Love

 V. Reflection
As Christians we are criticized for our Faith in Christ Jesus but also are lured and provoked by a world that wants to lie, cheat and steal in order to get ahead at any and all costs. Do we resist this temptation to be like the world or do we make excuses to justify that very same conduct in our own lives?