21/05/2020
Protecting the family
Nehemiah 4:13-15 Family is a beautiful organization that looks different for everyone. One thing is certain though, the family unit is fundamental to society; it is no wonder that the enemy often comes against families. Family problems are not new. In a fallen world, we often fight most with those we love most. In scripture, sibling rivalry crops up right in the beginning from the stories of Cain and Abel, Jacob and Esau, Joseph and his brothers and so many more. The enemy will do anything in his power to tear down the walls of spiritual protection around those we love. How do we make sure we fight FOR our families and not fight WITH our families in difficult times? In our scripture, Nehemiah studied the situation and then intentionally positioned the people in readiness to fight. I feel this is what God wants us to do for our families. Take your position in prayer and authority in your family. Be on the lookout. Don’t just sit back and think, “It’s always been like this!” and just let strife come and go in your home like its normal. God wants you to fight for your family in the Spirit. Nehemiah was on the lookout; he was actively watching. That’s what we need to do when we fight for our families. Being on the lookout means having spiritual discernment, asking God for eyes to see as He sees. When our family members do or say things that are hurtful, we are tempted to get offended and fight back. Instead, being on the lookout means asking God “What is really going on here?” Instead of fighting back with angry words, ask the Spirit for discernment to identify the real enemy and to identify what is really going on below the surface! You may find that your family is angry because they are struggling with fear. You may find that their irrational responses are linked to deep insecurities. When you see your family through God’s eyes, you can fight the real enemy – the fear, the shame, the doubt behind the family member and not the individuals themselves. God brought you into your family because He knew how much they need you. No one gets everything right! So if you’ve made some mistakes, it’s okay. But now is the time to stand up, take your authority and wage war in the Spirit for your family! Don’t just let habits continue because they’ve been there so long! Take your position. Be on the lookout in lockdown.