What strategies can Christians use to resist intimidation, as seen in Nehemiah 6:13? Setting the Scene in Nehemiah 6:13 “He had been hired so that I would be intimidated, do as he said, and thus sin, so that they could give me a bad name to discredit me.” Recognize Intimidation as a Tool to Push You into Sin • Nehemiah names the plot for what it is: hired intimidation. • Satan’s goal is the same today—frighten believers into disobedience (1 Peter 5:8–9). • Strategy: call fear what it is, expose it to the light of truth (Ephesians 5:11). Stay Anchored to God’s Assignment • Nehemiah refuses to leave the wall; he keeps building (Nehemiah 6:3). • Hold the mission God gave you; don’t negotiate away obedience (1 Corinthians 15:58). • Strategy: rehearse the calling God has placed on your life whenever fear knocks. Filter Every Voice Through Scripture • The prophet Shemaiah’s counsel sounded spiritual but contradicted God’s law (only priests could enter the temple sanctuary). • Strategy checklist: – Does this advice square with clear biblical teaching? (Psalm 119:105) – Does it lead toward holiness or compromise? (2 Timothy 3:16–17) – Does it magnify God’s glory or my safety? (Acts 5:29) Guard Your Integrity, Guard the Mission • The enemy wanted a “bad name.” Your character is the platform for your witness (Proverbs 22:1). • Strategy: keep short accounts with God; refuse shortcuts, even under pressure. Draw Courage from the Lord’s Presence • “When I am afraid, I will trust in You.” (Psalm 56:3) • “God has not given us a spirit of fear…” (2 Timothy 1:7) • Strategy: quote Scripture aloud; remind your heart whose you are (Isaiah 41:10). Suit Up in Spiritual Armor • “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes.” (Ephesians 6:11) • Strategy elements: – Truth buckled around your waist—combat lies. – Righteousness—silence accusations. – Faith—extinguish flaming arrows of fear. – Word of God—your offensive weapon. Stand Shoulder to Shoulder with God’s People • Nehemiah had a team; walls go up in community (Nehemiah 4:19–20). • Strategy: invite accountability, encouragement, and intercession (Hebrews 10:24–25). Maintain a Watchful, Prayerful Posture • Nehemiah prayed and set a guard (Nehemiah 4:9). • Strategy: combine vigilance with constant communion with God (Colossians 4:2). Putting these strategies into practice enables believers to face intimidation the same way Nehemiah did—steadfast, discerning, and unshakably obedient. |
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