Discerning Deceit

Nehemiah is offered a plan of escape from his enemies, but it involves hiding in the most sacred place in the temple, a place where only the high priest was allowed to enter on special ceremonial days. While the plan seemed innocent enough, God revealed its treachery. God had protected Nehemiah so far, so there was no reason he should cower and hide from the enemy. Besides, doing the wrong thing even to achieve a good purpose is sin. God?s people should never be willfully caught up in illicit behavior.

We can trust God to keep his promises?they have no expiration date. They are good forever! We can be confident when we are told in God?s Word, ?The Lord will keep you safe from secret traps and deadly diseases? [ passage="Psalm 91:3"]. He has promised, and he will do it.

Is it ever appropriate to do the wrong thing for the right reason? How did Nehemiah come to the realization that Tobiah and Sanballat were behind the plot to ruin his reputation?

Based on the way Nehemiah handled this problem, what are some other character traits you recognize? Emulate him when you find yourself in similar situations. Pray: Teach me, Lord, to discern your will even among the traps that have been set to ensnare me.

 

1:1 In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. (ESV)

SEEKING STRENGTH FOR THE TASK

It becomes terribly frustrating when you are constantly being dogged by your enemies. In one instance, it is insults. In another, it is petty skirmishe,s and in yet another, it is lies, deceit and intimidation. Many of us would crack under such relentless personal and physical attack. Nehemiah, however, holds fast. God has given him the gift of discernment and he can spot deception a mile away.

Nehemiah does not fall for the intimidating tactics of his enemies. He recognizes them for what they are, and as is his practice, goes to God in prayer, appealing to God for strength.

Nehemiah needs strength for the physical task of building the wall. What are some other reasons he might need strength?

Deceit is pandemic in our society. Speak out against it when it occurs, knowing that God?s power will back you up. Pray: Lord, let me be prudent in my response to those who attack my credibility.