Conflict Catchers

Nehemiah 4:1-9

1. Levels of conflict surrounding the building of the wall.

• Sanballat and Tobiah were disturbed that someone had come to promote the welfare of the Israelites. Nehemiah 2:10
• As the plans for building took shape they proceeded too mockery and ridicule Nehemiah 2:19, 4:2
• When the work started they became angry and were greatly incensed. Nehemiah 4:1
• Finally they became very angry and started plotting physical violence against their enemies. Nehemiah 4:7-8

2. Take it to the Lord in prayer.

• The first response of Nehemiah to the ridicule and anger is to take it to the LORD in prayer. Nehemiah 4:4-5
• Their prayer is a cry to the LORD to be heard and vindicated. Nehemiah 4:4
• Nehemiah seems to be angry at the slight given to the builders of the wall. Nehemiah 4:5

3. Do not let your anger consume you.

• If you are on the path that Sanballat and Tobiah went down, you need help, for the path ends in bitterness and brokenness, even if your cause is just.
• The builders succeeded because they worked with all their hearts. Nehemiah 4:6
• My son, give me your heart and let your eyes keep to my ways. Proverbs 23:26