Dennis R. Wiles
First Baptist Arlington
October 6, 2024
FALL 2024
Together . . . for the Future
September 1 – November 2, 2024
Preaching Voice: Shepherd
Detoured by Distractions
Nehemiah 6:1-16
CELEBRATION OF THE LORD’S SUPPER
Theme for 2024: Together
Theme for Fall 2024: Together . . . for the Future
Lessons for Re-Building (or Building)
-Kneeology: We must begin with prayer!
-You Are Here: We must accept an honest assessment!
-Planning and Zoning: Make a plan and get to work!
-Overcoming Obstacles: Obstacles can be overcome!
CONTEXT: Nehemiah had led the people in the great re-building project of the reconstruction of the wall around Jerusalem and the installation of the gates in the wall. Nehemiah 6 records the potential distractions faced by Nehemiah and his dismissal of them to continue his tireless focus on the work. And ---- the wall was finally completed!
DISTRACTIONS
-Fone
-Fear
-Focus
-Frustration
-Failure
-Faith
FEAR – The re-building journey is often fraught with fear. We can move past our fears!
FOCUS – It is easy to have our attention diverted when we are re-building. Sometimes, we have to intentionally re-focus our attention to the task at hand.
FRUSTRATION – Re-building is not easy! Sometimes we are frustrated by what we deem to be lack of progress. We must move past our frustrations to keep progressing.
FAILURE – There may be minor setbacks and “failures” along the way. We can’t be deterred by a less than perfect journey.
FAITH – God is an expert at renovation, re-construction, restoration, and re-building. Let’s keep our eyes on Him and trust Him for His provision as we keep re-building.